Andover's A-Fest to go online for the first time (this is where you can watch)

Originally due to take place on May 3, it was moved forward to September 6 in March after the enforcement of lockdown regulations.

Though lockdown may have been lifted, the organisers of the event have decided to turn the event into a livestream to allow as many people as possible to virtually attend.

One of the festival’s co-organisers, Cat Randle, said: “Online events allow people who struggle due to distance and disability to perform and attend.”

To do this, they have teamed up with the Member of Youth Parliament for North West Hampshire, Dmitrijs Meiksans, after his livestream which raised £375 for a number of local charities.

The organisers plan to feature a variety of music, demonstrations, organisations, and businesses online, with a mix of live streaming and pre-recorded films.

Katherine Bird, co-organiser, said: “We are delighted to be able to present A-Fest in a different format this year. “This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses, youth groups and organisations to get involved and promote the services they offer for young people in our community”.

Last year, 3,000 young people and families attended A-Fest in Andover High Street, to see the opportunities available in Andover for 5-18-year-olds.

Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council said, "Well done to Katherine, Cat and Dmitrijs for putting on A-Fest again this year. A great effort considering the current situation. The pandemic has had a major effect on young people and I hope this event will help bring them together, enjoy the performances and find out what is on offer for young people in our community."

The livestream will be available from 11am-3pm on Saturday, September 6, at www.tinyurl.com/A-Fest2020.

Any performing artist, youth group, organisation or businesses that would like to be involved can contact info@afest.online or send a message via https://www.facebook.com/afestandover.