We’re gutted after neighbour war forced £148m lottery winner to cancel festival – small group have ruined it for all
ROCK fans have been left gutted after a neighbour war forced a lottery winner to cancel a music festival.
Adrian Bayford, 53, who bagged £148m on the Euromillions, invited thousands of heavy metal fans onto the 90 acres of land attached to his £12m Cambridgeshire mansion.
But organisers are now arranging refunds to festival-goers after council chiefs denied its request for an event licence – following a string of objections from fed-up families nearby.
Now angry attendees have taken to the social media page for the event, dubbed The Cambridge Rock Festival (CRF), to vent their frustration and say they want it back next year.
People also sent well wishes to festival director Dave Roberts, who has struggled with medical issues over the past few years.
One said: “What an absolute minefield, I feel for you all.”
Another commented: “It is good to know that it was the change in licensing regulations which led to this years cancellation. Dave has always given his best to ensure that CRF was the best run and the friendliest festival and was supported by many people. To everyone involved thank you for past efforts and for 2024 we look to see you there!”
A third said: “Nightmare! We will be there next year. Keep the faith.”
One quipped: “So R.T. P.+B.S. strike yet again to deny the music loving public a few days of fun, laughter, and brilliant music/atmosphere in these ‘trying times’! Key to abrvs = R.T. RED TAPE, P. POLITICS, and B.S. well, make of that what you will. As previously, all power to Dave and EVERYONE involved with CRF, you ROCK!!”
A final person said: “Surely the organisers can challenge the decision, which is very unfair and way too late. One man should not be allowed to spoil the fun of thousands. Up the revolution. Challenge the decision!”
It comes after The Sun previously reported locals were fuming at the idea of another festival so close to their homes.
The £129 event, which had been set to feature 60 rock bands, would have seen music playing until 11pm each night.
But nearby residents said they did not want to be blighted by booming bass and drum sounds.
The four-day festival, which has seen huge acts perform over the years, including Thunder, Uriah Heep and Hazel O’Connor, was set to take place from August 3 to 6.
The former postie won the whopping prize in 2015 with his now ex-wife Gillian.
Adrian moved to Scotland in 2019 and has struggled to sell the pad ever since.