WICKHAM Festival chiefs have promised to top their best ever event next year.

With record crowds flocking to see the likes of Kiefer Sutherland and Frank Turner last weekend, organisers know it will be a tough task to surpass this year’s success.

But they are determined to continue growing the event in the picturesque Hampshire village.

Organiser Peter Chegwyn said: “It was a fabulous weekend, our best event yet. But that gives us the problem of how on earth do we top it?

“It is a very nice dilemma to have and we will definitely be looking to make it even better – although it will be tough!

“We had our strongest ever line-up and many of this year’s artists have already asked if they can come back.

“It was wonderful to see the site full and everyone going round with big smiles on their faces, which is why we do this.”

Hollywood icon Kiefer Sutherland fell in love with the festival as he drew it to a spectacular close.

He told the Daily Echo: “The audience was wonderful and this festival is wonderful. It was just a fantastic evening for us. The only other festival we have ever played in the UK was Glastonbury and this tent was very much like the one we played there. People have been amazing and the audience was extraordinary.”

There was something for everyone with music legends such as Judy Collins, Graham Nash and Lucinda Williams mixed with evergreen stars like Gilbert O’Sullivan, Lindisfarne and Ralph McTell as well as big bands such as Level 42 and the Proclaimers.

Chegwyn added: “They all responded to the fans and really put a lot into their shows.

“The reaction was fantastic.

“It is lovely when big stars say what a wonderful festival it is.

“Now the planning starts for next year.”

Wickham Festival 2020 will take place from Thursday August 6 to Sunday August 9 2020.

Fans who book before August 12 can save up to £80 on a weekend ticket.