Edith Bowman: From Glastonbury to Harrogate International Festival

Part of the Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival, the former BBC Radio 1 and BBC broadcaster Edith Bowman will share her personal photo collection, memories and behind the scenes insight into the last 20 years of festival going.

It’s a fitting way to celebrate Harrogate’s landmark 50th Festival with the Queen of Festivals herself.

The 41 year-old festival veteran and mum of two is married to Editors frontman Tom Smith and has watched more than 1,500 bands play at more than 80 festivals.

Audiences will hear her backstage observations, and interviews with dozens of major artists including Kylie Minogue.

She’ll share her experiences (yes of the loos and the weather) but mostly, the bands she met along the way, and reflecting on the greatest festival moments she has been privileged to witness.

From the muddy fields of Glastonbury, to the sunny hills of Portmeirion and Festival No 6, her book, Great British Music Festivals, is an immersive journey across the length of the UK in search of the ultimate festival experience.

It also features a free app, featuring exclusive digital content and interviews with Noel Gallagher, Bobbie Gillespie, Daman Albarn and high profile musicians on their own festival experiences.

Edith said: “I have been so privileged to spend a great deal of time listening to music and other incredible performances in the great British outdoors over the years. To get the chance to share that with anyone is an exciting opportunity.”

Edith Bowman, Friday, July 3, 3.30pm, The Crown Hotel, Harrogate. For tickets, call the Festival box office on 01423 562 303 or visit www.harrogateinternationalfestivals.com