By Terry Bearpark
The first of two big events to celebrate the great East Yorkshire summer with music took place on Saturday, August 6.
Withstock returned with Unlock the Rock, featuring seven local bands performing music for all tastes in a crowded Valley Gardens.
First up was Jack Scantily, followed by Fat Spaniels, the Hunter, Stealer, Bellyaches, Kinda Queen and headliners Just DC.
The odd drop of rain did not deter an enthusiastic audience who came out in force to enjoy themselves and the great music on offer at the event, organised by Withernsea Town Council. which pulled out all the stops to ensure the success of Unlock the Rock. The general opinion was that it worked, as visitors forgot any past problems and soaked up the atmosphere and good entertainment.
There were stalls and attractions around Valley Gardens plus a pop-up skate park on Memorial Avenue that attracted plenty of youngsters to have a go.
Withernsea’s answer to the Birmingham Bull, Turnip the Triceratops, brought gasps of delight as the huge lifelike prehistoric monster lumbered around the gardens and even joined in with the dancing.
Members of Riverside Artists also displayed their work with Patrington artist Steve Fletcher doing instant portraits for visitors.
A separate bar area catered for thirsty visitors while food stalls kept their hunger at bay, and for visitors’ safety there was a good security presence.
Sound and lighting was in the capable hands of JPA Sound and Light, and Russell Mathers of Seaside Radio was the compere for the event.
The council was grateful for a good sponsorship from local companies and organisations including Withernsea Big Local, Smiles for Miles, Holderness Hardware, Waxholme Trading Park, Withernsea and District Lions, the RAOB, Game King, the Old Boatshed and Tina’s Fashions.
Town clerk Jayne Moxon said: “It was a brilliant day. Everyone worked so hard to make it a great success. I think it was possibly the biggest crowd we have ever had and everyone stayed for the whole event, despite some rain. We look forward to the next event in two weeks.”
More Withstock entertainment will take place in the Valley Gardens on Saturday, August 13, from noon to 10.30pm with headliners Jackson D, supported by Adam Davison, Carrie Martin, Stubbsie, Squash, Sharon Garner, Paula Ryan, Ali Bullivant, Will Machine, Jim Danby, Work in Progress and Loudhailer.
