THE Orchard Trust has thanked everyone who helped make its accessible music festival a success as organisers begin looking ahead to next year’s event.

OrchardFest brought the community together for an afternoon and evening of live music and entertainment on Saturday, August 15.

The annual festival is organised by the Gloucestershire-based Orchard Trust and is designed especially for people with learning disabilities, while remaining open and welcoming to everyone.

Organisers have thanked those who attended this summer’s event, along with the performers, volunteers and supporters who helped make the festival possible.

One attendee said: “What a fabulous afternoon and evening. Really good bands. Well done Orchard Trust. Looking forward to the next one.”

Following the success of this year’s festival, OrchardFest will return on Saturday, August 21, 2027.

Organisers are already planning another summer event featuring live music, food vans, a bar, walkabout entertainment and other activities.

Accessibility will again be at the heart of the festival, with plenty of on-site parking and accessible paths available for visitors.

The site will also include a Changing Places facility and a quiet space for people who need to take a break from the music and crowds.

Businesses are also being invited to get involved with next year’s event through sponsorship opportunities.

The Orchard Trust said sponsorship would give businesses local exposure while helping support the disability community across Gloucestershire and contribute towards the festival.

The charity, based at Lydbrook Valley Springs in Central Lydbrook, supports people with learning disabilities through residential homes, day services and its community smallholding.

Its services aim to provide opportunities for people with learning disabilities to live life to the full and participate within their communities.

Pictures from this year’s event and further information about OrchardFest 2027 will be shared through the festival’s Facebook page as preparations continue over the coming months.