Sham Rocks on Fawcett’s Field in New Milton hailed a ‘fantastic success’

GLORIOUS weekend weather saw almost 2,500 music lovers throwing shapes at New Milton’s inaugural Sham Rocks festival.

Hailed by organisers as a “fantastic success that exceeded all expectations”, the weekend of family-friendly fun at Fawcett’s Field blended live music, entertainment and community spirit.

Event organiser Emer Druce, of Firefly Festivals, said: “This event has been years in the making. I remember sitting in that very field in the pouring rain, saying ‘One day we’ll put a festival on here’.

“That dream took shape slowly, with a handpicked group of passionate and committed people, we brought it to life. A small but mighty team, united by a shared vision, has made Sham Rocks what it is.”

A highlight of the festival programme was the GiG Bar area featuring a “future headliner” stage for original music from solos and duos. Described as a space where up-and-coming talent can meet with industry professionals such as agents and promoters, The GiG bar featured musicians from Waterbear College performing alongside local talent.

The two-day festival featured a busy programme of tribute artists including Saturday evening headliner Flash as Queen, and Are You Ready For Love featuring Charles Duke with his band as Elton John.

Other festival highlights included Madonna by Vicky Cluskey, Lady Gaga by Maybe Gaga and Juno Rising as Alanis Morissette

Revellers also enjoyed Britpop favourites from The 45s, Rock Anthems from Majestix; and a set from ’90s Club Anthems, while Nevaeh belted out her tribute to The X Factor and The Voice during a Girl Power set.

Family fun took the form of Music from The Movies, and The Ogretones performing songs from the Shrek series.

Emer said: “Bringing a music and arts event of this scale to New Milton has meant so much to us. It’s about planting a seed and watching it grow into something the community can enjoy for years to come.”

“We’re grateful to New Milton Town Council for its support, and to everyone who came along and helped make the weekend so special,” added Emer. “We were delighted to welcome fantastic traders, an incredible line-up of acts, and even a few fellow festival organisers, including teams from Shynefest and Grub and Groove.

“These conversations have sparked plans to build a “festival family” – a network of independent events supporting one another and offering discounted tickets to our communities.”

Organisers are looking for local sponsors and businesses “who would like to join our growing festival family”.

Planning for next year’s Sham Rocks Festival, set for 16th and 17th May 2026, is already under way with tickets on sale at ticketsource.co.uk/fireflyfestivals.

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