A brand-new event is set to bring Glastonbury's Red Brick Building to life this September.

FleeceFest, a free, daytime mini-festival, will take place on Saturday, 14 September, from 11 am to 4 pm in the Community Garden at the Red Brick Building, and it promises a day full of creativity, live music, and local food, all organised by a group of local young people.

FleeceFest will offer visitors a variety of activities, including sheepskin crafts led by local textile expert Liana, and a badge-making station where attendees can design and create their own unique souvenirs. One of the festival's highlights will be the collaborative painting of an impressive mural, planned and designed by young volunteers and guided by well-known local mural artist Jon Minshull.

The event will also feature live music from local musicians, including the premiere of new songs inspired by the stories of workers from the historic Morlands and Baily's factories. With plenty of food stalls offering tasty local snacks, FleeceFest is the perfect opportunity to relax with friends and soak in the atmosphere.

The community garden at the Red Brick Building (submitted)

The idea for FleeceFest was developed by a team of creative young volunteers working closely with Alison Horgan, the Heritage Project Co-ordinator at the Red Brick Building. The team wanted to create an event that would appeal to young people in the area and encourage them to engage with their local community. As one volunteer put it, "We really want everyone to come along and have a great day. We have tried to include lots of different types of things – something for everyone!" Another added, "It's been fun and a challenge to plan something like this, but it's given me some new experiences and I have met some new people."

The name "FleeceFest" is a nod to the building's past as part of the Morlands sheepskin factory, a key player in Glastonbury's economic and social history during the 20th century. The event will honour this heritage, particularly the craftsmanship and memories of those who worked in the sheepskin industry.

FleeceFest is part of a national project called New Wave, which encourages young people to get involved in heritage-related activities. It coincides with the national Heritage Open Days festival, which celebrates the rich history and heritage of communities across the UK. Events like talks, tours, and special openings will be taking place throughout Somerset as part of the festival, with full details available on the Heritage Open Days website.

FleeceFest will be held on Saturday, 14 September 2024, from 11 am to 4 pm in the Community Garden at the Red Brick Building, Glastonbury. For more information, visit www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk.