ONE year on from when Viola Beach performed in Bank Bank, fellow Warrington based post-Britpop alternative rockers Starsailor performed a fitting tribute in their home town.
Headlining at Warrington Festival, where Viola-Beach had performed as a support act last year, Starsailor, who were joined by guitarist Andy Dunlop from Travis, paid their own tribute by performing the tragic band’s hit single “Swings and Waterslides.”
Viola Beach consisted of singer Kris Leonard, guitarist River, bassist Tomas Lowe and drummer Jack Dakin. All four members of the band and their manager Craig Tarry died when their car plunged into a canal in Sweden in February.
Throughout the day local and regional bands took to the stage, following on from the previous nights successful Icons of the 80s gig, featuring T’Pau, Go West and Nik Kershaw.
Around 2000 fans turned up to watch the headline act who have had 10 top 40 singles, with many more music fans visiting the venue throughout the day.
Then at 7pm there was a moving video tribute of Viola Beach on a big screen with a stunning sunset adding to the occasion.
The music festival has kick started numerous other events taking place over the coming weeks.
For a full listing visit www.warringtonfestival.org
Beautiful sunset over Bank Park
Viola Beach on the big screen
Headliners Starsailor performing at Bank Park
Satrsailor performing with Andy Dunlop from Travis
Guitarist and vocalist James Walsh who told Warrington fans they may see them again “sooner than you think.”
Viola Beach at last year’s festival
