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Monday, July 14, 2008, 10:36
The big live music event was only given Torbay Council's go-ahead 24 hours in advance.
Health and safety experts were worried torrential rain over several days had made the grassy surface of St Mary's Park too slippery.
But the big free-entry Brixham bash got under way in fine style, kicking off with local band Strawberry Fish.
Stage manager Steve Fry said: “The gods were really smiling down on us — we had good weather.
“If we'd had any rain it would have killed the whole event.
“But it was wonderful, the bands all perform voluntarily and were superb.
“Friday night is always a struggle, you're never going to get a massive crowd, but from noon on Saturday the crowds just got bigger and bigger and everyone was having a fantastic time.”
Nine bands performed in total, with further acoustic acts performing during the day and young band, Minor Injuries Unit, former winners of the Battle of the Bands.
Mr Fry said: “It is all about the music really — that's not the only reason why people go along but it's one of the main reasons. And there is just so much talent in Brixham.
“Also, this event is for local charities and I think it's a good way of showing the rest of the Bay Brixham really knows how to hold an event.”
Eight festival committee members have been working on putting the festival together for more than a year, including chairman Martin Jefferys.
He said: “It was excellent. The atmosphere was really good, the crowds enjoyed the bands, people were really enjoying themselves.
“We also had a wonderful response from police.”
The 19 police officers, Specials and PCSOs patrolling the event were given special temporary powers by Inspector Mel Broad in a crackdown on under-age drinking.
Officers were told to escort any teeny-tipplers straight off the park and warn them they were legally banned from the area until the festival ended.
Sgt Dave Casley said: “We were determined to stop any trouble involving alcohol and teenagers too young to drink.
“It only takes a tiny minority to spoil it for young families and the vast number of music fans who just come to enjoy themselves.”
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