Phoenix rising as July festival approaches

As the weather temperature is rising, so is the Phoenix, as a busy team of organisers put the final plans in place for what promises to be one of the most exciting years in the festival"s development. The annual Phoenix Festival, which has grown to be the largest community festival in the Midlands, takes place this year from July 17 to 19 and includes an action packed programme of events for all ages. 'This year more than ever people are getting behind different projects associated with the festival and this will have telling effects on the weekend itself. With the year that"s in it we had to severely scale back on costs and this has forced us to be more innovative with the funds we have available and I honestly think the festival will be better for it. 'We have tried to keep all the various elements that made up the Phoenix Festival over the last eight years but our main focus this year is on street spectacle and family fun, creating an unique atmosphere on the streets of Tullamore with art, theatre, circus skills, parades and live music. Previously most people seemed too busy to help out but now people"s focus is thankfully back on grassroots community spirit and projects like the festival are gaining popularity,' commented Loughnan Hooper, Phoenix Festival Chairman.