Alstock Music Festival, which takes place in Bodmin, started in 2007 following the passing of Cornish music legend Al Hodge in July 2006.
Al’s son, Luke, along with a few of Al’s closest friends, organised a one-day music event to celebrate his life. The festival was held at Priory Park, Bodmin with all the proceeds going to Al’s favourite charity, the RNLI. Al supported the RNLI because of his love for the sea, and was a very keen surfer, spending every possible second in the sea when he wasn’t touring with Leo Sayer or gigging locally!
This one-off music event was something Bodmin had never experienced before and was a huge success. Over a thousand people attended with bands, stage, PA, lighting and security all giving their time for free, not only because it was a charitable event but because Al was loved by so many people.
The event was such a success that Alstock Music Festival was officially established and has become an annual event in July.
Fifteen years later and the festival has gone from strength to strength. Tens of thousands of pounds have been raised for both national and local charities and the Al Hodge Music Award along with £500 is presented to a student at Bodmin College every year in recognition of their ability, effort and achievements.
Alstock has been used as a stepping stone for many young bands to establish themselves on the music scene. A music teacher in later life, Al always had a passion for encouraging young musicians to express themselves.
Alstock is a 12-hour festival with 2 stages, allowing many varied performances throughout the day with the crescendo being a brilliant headliner.
Alstock 2022 is being held on Saturday, 30th July at Priory Park, Bodmin with Tankus the Henge confirmed as this year’s headliners. Plymouth’s finest 10-piece band Joey The Lips are also performing during the evening, along with many other superb bands.
The Friday night (29th July) sees Bournemouth Act Absolutely Dragulous along with the brilliant Small Wonder and The Guise playing inside the large marquee with a limited number of tickets available.
Alstock started out as a one-off festival but has now grown to a well established musical event, run by a team of friends that give up all their time for free because of the passion they have for this amazing event. All proceeds are given to charity.
Visit alstock.co.uk for more information.