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Established by the Skinner family in 2015, Sheb Fest is North Devon’s very own family-friendly, independent music festival. Two days of live music across two stages, as well as local food and drink, makes for the perfect way to end the summer and it has become an annual tradition for many people across the south west and beyond.
Having started in 2015 with just 500 visitors, Sheb Fest has grown dramatically over the last nine years and now has over 3,000 visitors each year.
The festival is situated in the rolling Devonshire countryside on the Skinner’s working beef farm. Dave and Sue Skinner, alongside sons Toby and Ryan, still run the festival completely independently.
Dave says: “The original idea for Sheb Fest came after a few drinks on a night out, so it’s amazing to see how far it has come."
“Although we originally had no experience organising an event on this scale, we’ve always loved live music. We wanted to create an event that showcased up-and-coming local bands, as well as household names, here on the farm. We’ve learnt so much over the years and still deal with all the organisation and bookings ourselves.”
The line-up gets bigger and better each year and previously the festival has welcomed Razorlight, Ella Henderson, Pixie Lott, Feeder, Scouting for Girls and many more to the farm.
Charity Fundraising
Since the festival has started, it has raised over £30,000 for the North Devon Hospice and is a charity close to the Skinner family’s heart. They have also donated to Save the children, British Heart Foundation, Parkinsons UK and others.
Sue Skinner says: “We like to support the North Devon Hospice as we have lost friends over the years that have benefited from their support. They do an amazing job and hopefully we will be able to give them another big donation at this year’s festival.”
Lisa Mackenzie, Event Manager at the North Devon Hospice and Sheb Fest’s official compere says: “We are thrilled that Sue, Dave and the team have again planned another incredible festival supporting the North Devon Hospice. The money raised helps to support the many patients in our care, and their families at a time when they need us the most.
“Our care not only happens at the Hospice, but also within the community and at our outreach centre in Holsworthy. The geographical area covered by The North Devon Hospice is the largest in the UK, and we are so proud that our teams are always on hand for support.”
“Thank you to not only the organisers and volunteers at Sheb Fest, but also to everyone that attends the festival, for ultimately supporting local families in need.”