Landlord of the Crown and Sceptre pub, Rodda Thomas looks ahead to this weekend’s Outer Fringe Festival which will be centred around the pub’s beer garden.
“The last year has been challenging to say the least. There was no Outer Fringe last year due to Covid, so this year we have put on an extra special festival for everyone. With a great line-up of the best acts Stroud has to offer, along with a beer and cider festival and some delicious food. It promises to be a cracking weekend.
“Friday kicks off at 6.30 with new local band The Pumps playing their first gig, and I’ve been told that you will need your dancing shoes. They are followed by Frankly Skanky, Gerb’s Reggae outfit, and the Outer Fringe would not be the same without the BIG band sound of the Soul Destroyers who will headline the first night of Live Music.
“Saturday’s eclectic Mix starts at 1.30pm with our own astronaut in Marko’s Outer Space Emporium followed by electronic sounds of the inimitable 3 litre Capri. Local singer songwriter Tazmin Barnes is on next, with the dulcet sounds of Jamie’s The Scrutineers following on. Tim and Floyd will be playing some of their Ol’ Rock and Roll with the Shady Past and The Lost Submarines, The best looking, kick-ass rock and roll band this side of Middle Street. Saturday night headliners are Les Burnadettes the all-girl Parisian punk outfit, famous for their Abba covers!
“Sunday sees the return of the Famous Chilli Cookoff and Americana Music Day. Teams of local chefs have four hours to create a prize-winning chilli to the accompaniment of a selection of great Americana bands.
“The music begins at 1.50pm with local songsmith Earl, followed by the stomping blues of Howling Matt. John and Dr Slash are next on-stage with their Moonshine-soaked Americana. At 6pm there will be a break while the chilli judging takes place, the winner is announced, and everyone is invited to try all the chillis for a small charitable donation.
“At 6.40pm pub favourite Trevor Babjack Steiger will entertain with his selection of homemade cigar box guitars supporting the headliner is Big Jo Bone with his foot stomping blues. The evening is rounded off by Luke Philbrick and the Solid Gone Skiffle Invasion.
“On bank holiday Monday morning It’s the YARD SALE! This is when the good people of Stroud get to sell their surplus and unwanted stuff on the street. We will also have some tables in the marquee (in case of inclement weather).
“At Noon Stroud’s Big Red Band will gather at the Whitehall end of Horns Road and do a slow march, New Orléans style, down Horns Road to the Pub. We then have the Reggae sounds of DJ Jerksauceproject to entertain while Erin cooks up her pad Thai noodle bar (veggie, vegan and gluten free versions available).”
