Review: Richard Hawley tops highlights of Deer Shed fest 2016

This music, arts, comedy and science event is held over three days in the great outdoors at Baldersby Park south of Thirsk and 2016’s proved, as always, extremely popular with young families. Over the weekend Deer Shed Festival fields a minor army of 80 staff and 300 volunteers to create this wonderful event.The festival was started by music-loving husband and wife team, Oliver Jones and Kate Webster, when they found themselves trying to find a festival in the North which suited their musical tastes but also provided entertainment for their three children. It’s line-up is always strong. In the past, Deer Shed has hosted the likes of Johnny Marr, Gaz Coombes, Billy Bragg and John Grant.This year has offered Everything Everything, Beth Orton and Richard Hawley in the way of headliners and a welcome return for intelligent pop favourites Field Music.Lesser known highlights included Rae Morris singing songs from her brilliant debut album Unguarded, the big stage presence of ex-Beta Band man Steve Mason and teenager Declan McKenna.Throw in a million and one other things to do, including a circus big top, a traditional fun fair big wheel, and plenty of open space for children to run around in and this festival certainly lives up to its family-friendly aspirations.As Deer Shed continues to grow the tickets sell out faster every year.Early bird tickets for Deer Shed 8 will be available from September 8 at www.deershedfestival.com