TWO university students are set to bring "affordable" entertainment to Essex this summer after their music and dance festival was given the go-ahead.
George Hughes, 21, and Chantelle Dyson, 19, are the masterminds behind the Big Garden Festival in Danbury and hope to attract up to 1,000 people to the village over one weekend.
The pair, who met at the Central School of Speech and Drama, say their two-day event will be an alternative to Chelmsford's massive V Festival at Hylands Park in August.
George, who lives in London, said: "It was very important for us to get the go-ahead. We have discussed this project since the beginning of last year and a lot of man hours have gone into the event.
"It's taken a good six months contacting all the local authorities. We have just got to bring it all together now."
The festival will take place over the weekend of August 10 at the Outdoor Centre on Well Lane after Chelmsford City Council granted the pair permission on Wednesday, April 10 to stage live music.
They were told they were allowed to serve alcohol at the event, which will run from midday to 10pm on the Saturday, and from midday to 7.30pm on the Sunday.
Chantelle added: "I am really excited now we have got the licence – it's a really great thing to do.
"What we really aim to do here is provide an affordable option for families."
Miss Dyson, of Great Leighs, said the festival would promote local artistic talent.
But at the licensing and committee meeting, several residents raised concerns over the noise and potential rowdiness of the festival.
"We take all concerns into consideration and we are here to work with local residents," said George.
He said all profits raised would go to Danbury Scouts Group and other charities.
A day adult ticket costs £15, a full weekend ticket £25 and a full weekend camping ticket £40. Children under five go free.
