Crowds brave the elements at "the most middle class benefit gig in history"
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Grey skies and persistent rain did little to dampen spirits at Chiswick's first pop festival. Chiswickians, celebrities and a huge contingent of the capital's media industry donned their wellies and waterproofs to be entertained by some of the music industry's hottest acts.
The event was launched by Chiswick's own Richard Bacon who welcomed everyone to what was "probably the most middle class benefit gig in history". Festival veteran Jo Whiley, regretting leaving her wellies at home, announced it the "poshest festival she had ever been to".
Asking around it transpired that The Hoosiers were the day's favourite band with Lily Allen - who gave a fantastic rendition of Blondie's Heart of Glass - and Jamie Cullen (pictured right), whose entire performance including "I've got you under my skin" was sublime, came out as the best soloists.
Jamie Cullen's claimed that Soho House supremo wasn't paying him for the gig but had promised to open a new club near his home - "So bring on Harlesden House!"
Celeb spotting revealed David Tennant dancing in the mud with girlfriend Sophia Myles, Lawrence Lewellyn Bowen who spent an inordinate amount of time holding what was thought to be his wife's handbag, local funny men Al Murray and Dara O'Briain, Jamie Theakston, Tim Vincent and quite a number of tv soap stars we had trouble naming!
It is thought that £300,000 was raised by the event which will go towards the restoration of Chiswick House's Amphitheatre, Soho House's adopted project.
July 7, 2007