8:03am Monday 6th July 2009
SCORCHING temperatures, an appearance by Doctor Who and plenty of great music, brought the crowds flocking to this year’s Basfest.
The weekend’s feast of free music and entertainment, in Gloucester Park, Basildon drew an estimated 40,000 revellers over the two days.
One of the biggest attractions was a scaled-down version of Doctor Who’s Tardis, a Cyberman costume and a visit by one of the former Doctors, Colin Baker, who starred in the BBC sci-fi series between 1984 and 1986.
Festival-goers met and chatted with the actor and looked at the iconic Tardis, part of a special exhibition celebrating Basildon’s 60th birthday.
Basfest 2009’s main stage featured a huge range of live music, including former Stranglers singer Hugh Cornwell and soul stars Jimmy James and the Vagabonds.
Other performers included March of the Mods, Funk Affair, Luminar, Queen tribute, the Bohemians and the Elliott Henshaw Band.
There were activities for the youngsters, too, with the puppet shows certainly going down well with two-year-old Genevieve Dent, her mum, Corrina Dent and grandmother, Sandra Dent.
Corrina, of Braybrook, Basildon, said: “We’re having a really good day, but it’s far too hot. The entertainment is great, especially the puppets. She loved it and even got to play with them afterwards.”
Sandra, of Mynchens, Basildon, said: “It’s a really good atmosphere. I’ve been before and come back for the entertainment.”
In the events arena displays drew crowds of about 400 to watch the Essex dog display team, a display by the Essex Fire and Rescue Service and performances by local dance school pupils.
On the community stage, the weather was matched by the sunny sounds of a steel band. Other attractions included a fashion show, and local singers.
For the teenagers, the Boom Room made a return, with DJs and MCs competing for a chance to play a live set at Liquid nightclub, on the Festival Leisure Park in Basildon.
Site manager Graham Sandford said: “We’ve got really big crowds. Last year, we had 40,000 over the weekend and I think we’re set to equal or beat that this year.
“It’s been very successful, with great weather and a great programme of events.”
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