GRASSROOTS music returned to Warrington at the weekend, with the town's open-air music festival taking place once again.

Warrington Music Festival kicked off on Saturday, June 3, and was met with rapturous support from the thousands of attendees who descended on the Golden Square.

Live music continued into the evening which culminated with a dynamic homecoming performance by the town's own Winachi, who split their time between California and Warrington.

Warrington Guardian: Warrington's own the AV Club took to the stage during the festivalWarrington's own the AV Club took to the stage during the festival (Image: Natalie Persoglio)

More than 20 bands and artists performed, including Standin’ Man – who will be supporting the Who in St Helens next month.

The festival is organised by Steve Oates, from Score Creative, and Christian ­­Persoglio, from Culture Warrington, together with partners Golden Square and Warrington BID.

Steve said: "I'd like to thank all the artists who performed so brilliantly and professionally on Saturday, and everyone who came down to support our homegrown musical talent and make the event such a great success – 2023 was a great vintage for the Warrington Music Festival and I know we all look forward to building upon this into next year and beyond.’’

It has been confirmed that planning is already underway for next year's music festival, following the success of last weekend's performances.

This year marked the return of the festival - which hopes to act as a springboard for up-and-coming artists - after having to pause performances due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Warrington Guardian: Standin' Man will be supporting the Who in St Helens next monthStandin' Man will be supporting the Who in St Helens next month (Image: Supplied)

Ian Cox, centre manager at Golden Square, said: “We were absolutely delighted to once again host this brilliant festival in the heart of Warrington.

"The atmosphere was electric and I was blown away by the musical talent we have on our doorstep.

“We’re proud that Old Marketplace has become a focal point for community celebrations like this.”

Andrea Morley, Warrington BID project manager, added: “We know that the residents of Warrington and our neighbouring towns are huge fans of Warrington Music Festival, so it was a no-brainer for us to bring this event back for 2023.

“It has kicked off a summer programme of events in our town centre, whilst showcasing the many talented artists we have in Warrington.

“This event has brought new and returning visitors to the town centre, all supporting our business community, especially our retail and hospitality venues.”

Warrington Guardian: Winachi splits their time between the UK and USWinachi splits their time between the UK and US (Image: Natalie Persoglio)

Christian Persoglio, venue and events manager at the Pyramid and Parr Hall, said: “Following a tough few years across the live music scene and the absence of the event, we made the decision to take the festival back to its roots, concentrating on emerging artists from the town.

"The festival has always been a huge focal point for artists locally so we were so pleased to make them centre stage again.

“This year’s showcase was not only a fantastic celebration of grassroots talent but a timely reminder of what the experience and platform means to people.

"Plans are already in place to bring the festival back in 2024 so watch this space and thanks to everyone who supported the event.”