Lottery winner banned from festival because neighbors protested

England
Lottery winner wants to hold a festival on his property – but the neighbors go on the barricades

Lottery winner Adrian Bayford wanted to make his property available for a music festival – but the authorities thwarted his plans. Apparently the millionaire messed it up with his neighbors.

148 million pounds – Adrian Bayford won this huge sum in the lottery in 2012. At the time, that was the equivalent of 190 million euros. The then 41-year-old hit the jackpot with his wife.

Among other things, the Brit bought a 90-hectare piece of land in the English village of Linton with his money. And that’s where he likes to invite guests: in 2017, Bayford offered his property as a venue for Cambridge Rock Festival – a festival where, according to the organizers, classic rock, blues and prog will be played. A second edition was published in 2018. This year the festival should again take place on Bayford’s property. But the plan fell through due to protests from local residents.

Authorities don’t allow festival of lottery winners

They feared that there could be noise pollution from the numerous visitors. After all, 1500 music fans were expected at the festival in the otherwise rather tranquil area – and the event was supposed to last four days. This year there were new licensing conditions from the authorities, who denied the festival permission due to the expected volume.

Bayford and his team argued that the venue was far enough away from other local residents. In addition, the concerts should only last until 11 p.m., and no alcohol should be served to guests who were already drunk. The authorities, however, were not convinced. Apparently, many residents of the place had a negative attitude towards the festival and the expected rush of people.

Plans for 2024

Since the cancellation came at relatively short notice, the organizers now have to look for solutions. Fans who have already bought a ticket can return it and get their money refunded. However, the tickets are also valid for the following year. Because the organizers have already announced that they will apply for a license again for 2024 and are optimistic: it is assumed that all problems can be solved. For this year, however, this is no longer possible at such short notice. The festival was originally supposed to take place on the first weekend in August and last four days, and 60 bands had confirmed.

Sources: BBC / Cambridge Rock Festival