BARNSLEY’S premier music festival Underneath the Stars - which has attracted huge acts such as The Proclaimers and Scouting for Girls - will mark its final event later this year.
This summer will be the tenth celebration of the festival, which is held at Cinderhill Farm in Cawthorne, and will take place from August 2 to August 4.
It has played a leading role in boosting Barnsley’s music scene - but its organisers have confirmed this festival will be the last.
Emma Holling, festival director, said: “We never imagined that a wild idea conceived around our dining room table, overlooking the hills near Cawthorne, would blossom into the amazing festival it is today.
“When we started a decade ago, we were driven, as now, by passion and a sense of adventure.
“Now, we find ourselves in different places, both personally and professionally and operating in different times.
“We can’t believe this will be our tenth event - it is an amazing achievement and now our adventures are leading us in different directions.
“This decision, though difficult, feels right as we embrace these new chapters in our lives.
“Looking back, we are overwhelmed with pride and joy.
“From our humble beginnings to welcoming a beautiful, ever-growing audience, every moment has been a dream come true.”
The festival has been home to some huge names in the past and this year’s event will continue that trend.
Comedian and Strictly Come Dancing winner Bill Bailey will be joined by former X Factor contestant Lucy Spraggan and Barnsley Youth Choir in the festival’s final showdown - at least for the time being.
“The laughter, music and unforgettable memories we’ve shared together have exceeded our wildest expectations,” Emma added.
“Those we have worked with and who have supported us, together with our incredible audience and volunteer team, have been the heart and soul of this festival.
“Your involvement, energy, love, and unwavering support turned our little dream into a phenomenal and award-winning success.
“Each year, you’ve brought magic, transforming our event into a celebration of community, creativity, and pure joy.
“While this news may come as a shock, we wanted to share it with you in good time and so that our stargazers can all come together to celebrate one last time.
“Never say never of course and no-one ever knows what we might do in the future.”
Emma said the current landscape of festivals is ‘challenging’ and is urging everyone to support local events wherever they can.
“We do know that the festival landscape is challenging at the moment and our hearts and minds are with all our festival friends and family,” she added.
“If you are thinking at all about supporting Underneath the Stars or any independent event or festival this year, now more than ever is the time to and we would urge you to do just that.
“Looking forward to this summer, plans are firmly in place to make this final festival our best and most spectacular yet, filled with love, and the biggest cheer possible.
“Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.
“Let’s cherish every moment and create one last round of memories that we will treasure forever - we look forward to seeing you there.”
