M-Fest licence given go-ahead

Festival Stage Events director Donal O’Driscoll said he was “elated” after councillors on Kirklees Council’s licensing panel gave the go ahead for the May 25 event. Mr O’Driscoll, the man behind Heckmondwike’s popular Crown of Lights Festival, laid out his vision for the festival, with a wide mix of music and children’s activities on offer.

Councillors probed him on the organisation and safety of the 10 hour event, but Mr O’Driscoll assured them 50 experienced stewards and on-site litter-pickers would ensure the event would run smoothly and with minimal disruption. There will be a car park at Castle Hall Academy. No parking will be allowed directly outside the venue in Huddersfield Road.

Mr O’Driscoll applied for a four day licence on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, from the panel. He explained that this would give the festival the opportunity to expand over the bank holiday weekend in coming years if the first event is a success.

Tickets can be bought at www.mfest.biz or at various shops in Mirfield town centre.