Yarty Party Festival’s fourth year was a sun filled, sell out success. Early on Friday 16th July, the Axminster Showground woke to a steady stream of festival-goers and campers preparing to enjoy the fine weather.
After 16 months of restrictions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the atmosphere was undoubtedly full of positivity and saw headliners Ratrace, Gypsy Hill and Psychadelephant appear on three different music stages packed with local talent.
Event organisers, Kara and Paul Burrough, and Dave and Emma Moore said: “What a weekend! The eclectic mix of bands, artists and DJs were all outstanding.
“However, none of this would be possible without the hard work and dedication of the entire Yarty Party crew who donate their time and skills to ensure the festival takes place. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
The site was provided by kind permission of the Burrough family and special thanks go to the Axe Vale Show for its contributions. Red Elephant Group Ltd delivered site security, North Somerset Ambulance Services catered for all things medical, while RBS Scaffolding built the Big Top stage.
Hayley Widger spoke on behalf of the Axminster Neighbourhood Police Team who attended for community engagement. She said: “It was a great family event and very well organised.”
Kara Burrough said: “There’s a fantastic community spirit here in Axminster. If you could bottle it, we would! We believe the Yarty Party Festival is an extension of the community spirit we’ve got in our town.”
With this in mind, free trader pitches were given to local Axminster businesses and a free tea tent provided to Pippins Community Centre. Deputy Mayor of Axminster, Andrea Sedgwick attended along with Pippins’ volunteers, and said: “We raised over £500 towards the restoration project for the windows in our Grade II listed community centre on Lyme Road.”
Axminster's County Cllr, Ian Hall added: "One word- amazing! Axminster got its smiles back last week and it was lovely to see so many incredibly happy faces enjoying a bit of freedom.”
Finally, Axminster Care Service, who are ongoing beneficiaries of the festival, and the Axminster Christmas Dinner appeal, held annually in The Guildhall will receive cheques in due course.
To purchase Early Bird tickets for 2022, please head to www.yartyparty.co.uk.

Midweek Herald: The Yarty DinosaurThe Yarty Dinosaur (Image: Neil Bigwood)