CROWDS at Wickham Festival raised their cups and their voices to the sound of a special song last night. 

Show of Hands took to the stage in the Big Top at the festival, which is taking place this weekend.

Steve Knightley from the duo had been commissioned to write a song for Wickham by Wickham Parish Council. 

Hampshire Chronicle:

After its debut on Thursday, it returned to the event on the big stage last night - as part of Show of Hands set. 

READ MORE: Wickham Festival 2022: Music and good times at Meon Valley festival

And it did not disappoint as the large crowd joined in with gusto. 

Project lead Nicki Oliver said: "It was great to hear it performed at Wickham Festival and is an anthem for our village for generations to come."

Hampshire Chronicle:

Steve worked with a choir of local people assembled under the capable hands of music director DiElle from Igloo Music.

In 2017 the idea for a song for Wickham arose as the village was looking towards a new decade with changes ahead, 2020 also marked the 900th anniversary of St Nicholas Church.

The idea was supported by Wickham Parish Council and taken forward thanks to a Lottery grant.

SEE ALSO: Are you in our gallery? Best pictures from Wickham Festival 2022 so far

The song celebrates the old traditions and the newer events that fill the village calendar. It reflects on its history including a mention of Dame Mary Donaldson. Dame Mary was born in Wickham and was the first female Lord Mayor of London, she adopted the slogan "It's people that matter" and was an incredible role model for effective public service.

Nicki thanked Jane Painter from Wickham History Society and Peter Chegwyn the festival organiser for supporting the project. 

 

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