Adrian Bayford, a UK resident who won a staggering $162 million in a EuroMillions draw in 2012, has been the subject of neighborhood ire due to his grand four-day festival celebrations. Despite the noise complaints from his neighbors, Bayford has announced the return of the festival, which he hosts on his Cambridgeshire estate, purchased with his lottery winnings.
The festival, known as the Cambridge Rock Festival, formerly the Rockinbeerfest, has been a tradition since Bayford’s win. It was previously held in 2017 and 2018, attracting up to 2000 attendees. However, the festival was canceled this year due to the requirement of a permanent event license, as it had previously operated under a temporary one.
Local residents have expressed their concerns about the festival, citing the “intolerable” noise levels and “severe disturbance to peace,” as reported by the Cambridge Independent. Despite these complaints, it has been confirmed that the Cambridge Rock Festival will proceed in 2024.
The South Cambridgeshire District Council dismissed the complaints from the locals and approved the license application. The approval allows the festival to feature live music, sell alcohol between 11 am and 11 pm, and host up to 1500 people, including staff, contractors, and entertainers. This license also ensures the festival’s continuity, granting approval for a four-day event between May and September each year.
The festival offers a unique “pay what you can afford” full festival ticket starting at £129 ($165 USD), along with cheaper day tickets.
A statement on the festival’s website confirmed the news, stating, “Whilst it’s too late for this year, we are pleased to announce that the Cambridge Rock Festival has been granted its premises license, which will allow CRF 2024 to go ahead.” The statement also mentioned that the first acts for the 2024 festival would be announced soon.