Making music for the lifeboat

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Thousands are expected to attend the annual charity Beach Concert this weekend.

The two day event features a top line-up of local talent and has become something of an institution on the Hastings calendar.

As well as raising vital funds for the Hastings RNLI, the beach concert will also raise money for the Sea Cadets and Pett Level Rescue.

As always it launches the start of Old Town Carnival Week on Saturday August 1 and Sunday 2.

Top of the bill this year is the popular Blues Brothers Show. Other bands and artists playing include Sam Calver, Doctor Savage and The Cajun Dawgs.

This year sees a first as the concert moves from the beach itself to a new home on the Stade Open Space, next to the Jerwood.

Although being wound up after last year a few local traders and residents decided it was just too good an event to loose and have got together under the umbrella of High Street Traders to turn things around and keep the concert going.

Jackie Pratt, who is helping to organise the event, said: “A slight change this year is that it is being held on The Stade Open Space as the area of beach that has traditionally been used is occupied by the contractors who are resurfacing the Winch Road.

“ However, this has meant that a professional stage can be used for the first time and it gives the opportunity to create a festival site with some astroturf to sit on and a level surface so some seating can also be provided.