Edgy Fest

The pioneering event was put together by HOPE08, which organiser Michael Ensor explained was a culmination of all the churches in the area joining forces.

He said: "The whole weekend has been arranged and paid for by the Lions Club and local churches in the area - of all denominations - who want to get out into the community and support young people."

The park was converted into an open air auditorium for the two day event, and presented a wide range of performances which Michael said had, "something to appeal to all ages."

The event commenced on Saturday afternoon and as the first of the group's rock music rang out around the park, Michael said it was a great opportunity for young up and coming bands.

He said; "This is an opportunity for young people to show their music talent, and to make it into a fantastic event."

The music line up was arranged by Ian Barnett, supported by Live In The Valley and Rythmix with performances from four bands: HyBryd - a new youth band from St Richards School; Inseminate - from Bexhill & Hastings; MyToyBox - well known and liked locally and Barrier Dutch who played a wide range of musical genres.

The evening performance saw a complete change of style when the professional, "Life gospel Choir" took to the stage to perform a range of powerful gospel songs.

On Sunday Edgy Fest continued and provided a day of Christian celebration with and open air morning family praise with Beulah Baptist Church.

This was followed by 'Picnic in the Park', which everyone had been invited to bring their own picnic, enjoy the family atmosphere and the glorious summer's day.

The afternoon saw the theme of churches working together continue with various Christian groups providing a range of music, singing and drama presentations.

Proceedings then moved to the shore and for some, the Bexhill waters provided a salty sea baptism with a united service at St Peters church following at 6pm.

The weekend drew to a close with community hymn singing in the Colonnade at 8pm.

Entry to all the events were free but by ticket only, and they were limited to 400 as police had been concerned about security issues.

Also at the event was a refreshment marquee, a burger bar and ice cream van but all the events were strictly 'no alcohol.'

Michael gave thanks to all the hard work from the volunteer steward's, marshall and security staff and said it was a, "fabulous weekend."