Live festival deserves to be a success

HAILED by its organisers as one of the biggest events the island has ever seen, Guernsey Live is set to burst onto the stage this weekend.

At a reported cost of more than £500,000 it is a huge undertaking by its backers, who are to be commended for their faith, ambition and courage.

Those who would take potshots at the line-up of bands on offer, and demand more household names, should remember that this is the first such event in the island. By turning up and making a success of Guernsey Live 2008 they may be sowing the seeds for a line-up more to their liking in years to come.

For those who wish to see a vibrant live music event of this stature become an annual occurrence it is vital that a success is made of the first. Organisers and sponsors whose financial fingers are badly burned will not return to place their hands in the fire a second time.

Latest reports show that while organisers are content with the level of advance sales when compared with their first venture in Jersey it is on-the-door sales which will be crucial to the event’s success.

Sunny skies are a key part of that. The festival experience of a cold beer in a warm sun surrounded by thousands of fellow music lovers should entice many to turn up on the day and part with their cash.

Inevitably, however, that leads to the second area of concern. Alcohol.

Police and security staff will be determined to prevent potentially scores of inebriated festival-goers creating trouble on the streets after each of the two nights.

Achieving that must come from sensible policing and marshalling. A heavy-handed approach would risk spoiling the festival atmosphere and could prove counter-productive.

As part of that it will be vital for everyone to clear the area quickly. Tempers are more likely to flare if people find themselves stuck in endless queues when all they want to do is get home or into Town.

Residents of Victoria Avenue will be especially grateful for a speedy exit. For some, this weekend will be one to be endured more than enjoyed.