Gala highlight for festival weekend

3:04pm Thursday 8th May 2008

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A GALA concert promises to be one of many highlights at a three-day Spring Festival in Kingswinford.

The concert, at St Mary's Church, The Village, will feature performances from the award winning Phoenix Brass Band and singer/songwriter Chris Eaton.

The event aims to raise cash for church restoration and the charity World Vision, which provides education for third world children.

Chris, who penned tunes for artists including Cliff Richard and Janet Jackson, said: "I am delighted to have been asked to sing at the gala concert as all the money raised is going to such great causes."

Apart from a programme of live music throughout the weekend, visitors to the 12th century church during the event will also be able to enjoy floral displays reflecting pieces of music.

The festival, which opens at 10am on Friday May 16 and runs until 6pm on Sunday May 18, will also feature visits from school music groups, refreshments and craft stalls.

Kingswinford parish priest, Rev Dr Giles Kendall, said: "Although I only took up the post of priest in charge of the parish of Kingswinford last month, I am already thrilled and encouraged by all the hard work that has gone into the preparation of this festival weekend at the church."

The festival, which is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the oldest church in the borough, has already won the support of many businesses in the region who have donated over £1,000 to cover costs, meaning all funds raised during the event will be donated to charity.

Margaret Penn, churchwarden, said: "I hope and pray that thousands from Kingswinford and beyond come and visit us for a few minutes or for a few hours during our festival.

"The doors will be open and a warm welcome awaits."

Tickets for the gala concert cost £6 and car parking will be available at the nearby bowling green and park.

For more information call Margaret Penn on 01384 270806.