ORGANISERS of a new festival which aimed to bring together people from across Ryedale have described it as a 'fabulous' community event.
Ryedale Gateway Festival, which was held on Saturday, was a free, day-long celebration of live acts, DJs, music, arts, culture, and community, at venues across Malton and Norton.
Designed with an “all welcome” ethos, organisers said the festival is a chance for families, neighbours and visitors to come together, enjoy local talent rooted in North Yorkshire.
The primary focus for the main arena was in Malton Market Place, where two stages will hosted continuous live music from some of the area’s best local artists, while the Talbot Yard offered a more relaxed corner with acoustic performances.
Also taking place was Showcase ‘26 performed by dancers from Kirkham Henry Performing Arts at Norton College, while Sustainability Saturday took over the Palace Cinema in Malton for a showing of the National Emergency Briefing film by Chris Packham.
The festival was co-ordinated by You Will Be C.I.C., a Malton-based community interest company with funding support from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, and the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Hermione Norris from You Will Be C.I.C. said: “All the feedback we’ve had was positive, people enjoyed the wide variety of music styles and the fact that it was local bands, musicians and traders.
"Although the weather started off a bit grey it brightened up in the afternoon and particular highlights were the Alex Hamilton band and the finale of Dan Webster got people dancing."
"One visitor commented- 'Was absolutely brilliant.We dropped by for an hour or two and stayed all afternoon, while another said 'Fabulous! Music and happy people everywhere."
Liz Kemp, from Kemps in Malton market place said: “As a business located close to the event, we were delighted to support such a fantastic community day.
"The great music, relaxed atmosphere, and positive feedback from visitors showcased our town at its best. Trade was comparable to a good Saturday, and it was inspiring to see local residents, creatives, businesses, The Parish with the photo exhibition, pop up café, the SkateFest and the emergency briefing all coming together on one day.
"It was a welcoming, inclusive event that celebrated the unique character of our town and the strength of our community.”
Steve Mason director of You Will Be C.I.C, said: "The feedback has been great; it was truly a community festival, by the community, for the community. The National Emergency Briefing film in the morning was a sell-out, Talbot Yard was packed, and hundreds enjoyed live music in the square.
"I can’t wait for it to be bigger and better next year - watch this space,You Will Be happy."
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