ALRESFORD is set to stage its first music festival in 2010 after a false start this year.

Organisers hoped to hold it this summer, but postponed it because a suitable venue was not found.

They wanted to use Arlebury Park, but Alresford Town FC raised concerns about possible damage to the pitches.

Ken Veitch, the man behind the not-for-profit festival, started looking for alternatives.

He has now struck a deal to use the playing fields at Perins School in Pound Hill.

He said: “This is something that will benefit the town, the people in the town, and create a fantastic buzz for all.

“There is really nothing of note for the youngsters in Alresford to look forward to event-wise, so having two teenagers myself, I thought this concept should be a reality.”

The event is expected to attract around 4,000 fans. Mr Veitch is calling on the expertise of Brian Hayward, who runs Hayward Guitars in Stockbridge Road, Winchester, to make the arrangements.

The event is scheduled to happen on Saturday, June 19, next year, at several locations in Alresford.

Concerts are also proposed elsewhere in the town, with gigs in pubs, along with classical music in Alresford’s churches.

The event was launched last Sunday, when Winchester-based group, Rattlewreck, played at Alresford’s Horse and Groom pub.

Tickets will go on sale in around three months’ time. Visit alresfordmusicfestival.com, for more details.