ThornFest: Bishop’s Stortford primary school Thorn Grove’s first ever family music festival rocks as it raises £3,000

Thorn Grove Primary School could hardly have chosen a better day to change the format of its annual May Fayre.

As the sun shone down and the temperature went up to 22C (71.6F) on the warmest Saturday of the year in Stortford so far, the school welcomed hundreds of pupils, staff, their families and friends to its first ever music festival, ThornFest, on Saturday May 11.

Against a backdrop of live music from the main stage throughout the afternoon – courtesy of Abstract Chaos, Remedy and Hexed from Harlow Rock School plus local musician Dan Titus – the school’s grounds were packed with attractions for the whole family.

There were inflatables sponsored by ITVET, face painting, hair braiding, craft stalls, cycle tot sessions with Fox Cycling and a magic show and crowd-pleasing balloon modelling from Mr Bubbles, of Bubbly Circus.

The KidZone, featuring traditional fayre games and fun prizes headed up by nursery teacher Charlotte Jess and nursery nurse Lisa Camp, was as popular as ever.

And headteacher Peter Luck was once again a great sport for his annual soaking session in the stocks, much to the delight of his pupils armed with wet sponges.

One of the highlights was a dance performance by the whole school which got everyone up on their feet.

The sold-out barbecue, a licensed bar, ice cream van and candy floss stall ensured everyone was catered for throughout the afternoon.

Mr Luck said: “This has been the best event in all my time at the school.” Deputy head Jayne Lilley added: “It’s fabulous to see the school coming together to put on such a great event that everyone can enjoy. I can’t wait for next year.”

A spokeswoman said: “With some fabulous raffle prizes, including a Nintendo Switch donated by ITVET, it was an unforgettable day of fun and community spirit that could not have happened without the generous support and donations of local businesses.”

Organised by the volunteers of the school’s PTA (parent and teacher association), ThornFest raised a staggering £3,000, which will fully fund an educational workshop for the whole school taking place on June 28.

All pictures supplied by Thorn Grove Primary School