SADDLE up with the Redditch Westerners and head for Stratford race course this weekend where the borough club is putting on Blue Rodeo, a three day festival of all things country and western.
On stage will be 13 top country acts as well as a host of static and living history displays from Native American tipis and dance troupe to an American Civil War re-enactment society setting up a period encampment.
In addition there will be pioneer and settlers log cabins, authentic cowboy camps, western stalls, a fast draw competition plus lots more – including a beer tent and food stalls.
There will be plenty of music too with top UK-based C&W acts like The Daniel Martin Band, Texas Tornadoes, The Henry Smith Band, Daniel Berry and Gary Perkins.
It’s all been organised by Redditch Westerners under chairman John Hopkins from his Lodge Park home and this year marks the 17th anniversary of the event.
“The festival is not just about music, it’s about the western scene and culture – basically we’re not just a bunch of cowboys!” he said.
“The show attracts people from all over the country too and as far away as France,” said John.
John helped start Redditch Westerners with fellow enthusiast Alan Jones who sadly died last week, and over the years he has seen the festival grow from small beginnings into the huge three day festival it is today.
Redditch Westerners hold regular monthly club nights at Stoke Prior Sports and Country Club in Weston Hall Road, Stoke Prior, usually with a live band – for more details visit http://www.redditchwesterners.co.uk/ .
Blue Rodeo runs from August 6-9 at Stratford race course and all weekend festival ticket prices are £45 with day tickets available on the gate.
