BASINGSTOKE and Alton Cardiac Rehabilitation Charity is set to benefit from this year’s Silkfest.

This popular music festival was founded by local man Jon Lovegrove in 2005 and it began with a single day event headlined by Captain Everything and FireApple Red.

The 2015 three day event, presented by local promoters Rockbitch, returns to take over Sanctuary in London Street, from April 3-5.

This year’s charity has been chosen because Rockbitch’s Simon Roberts has been affected by a heart condition.

Simon, who is 37-years-old, explained: “I have had to use the cardiac rehab centre twice now in the past five years.

“Originally, I had open heart surgery following an illness relating to a blood clotting disorder and last year, I was diagnosed with heart failure. This was caused by yet another blood clot, which this time got stuck in my coronary artery.

“The Basingstoke and Alton Cardiac Rehab Centre, along with the Heart Clinic at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, have been amazing in aiding in my recovery.

“Without them I have no idea what shape I’d be in now, so it feels right to be able to give something back to them.

“I hope that everyone will come and party and bring plenty of money to give to this wonderful cause.”

Performers confirmed so far are: Press To Meco, Elasea, Fire At Night, Redhead, Sugarman Sam and The Voodoo Men, Glowing Juniper, Brink Theory, Tapestry, LUX, Cute Cute Death, Origami Heart, Oh Captain, Bel Esprit, Grey Haven, WATB, DED ORSE, Biolith, Stupid and Crown. More bands will be added to the line up over the coming weeks.

There will be market, merchandise and food stalls upstairs.

Entry to Silkfest costs £5 per day and £10 for the whole weekend. Tickets will be available on the door. 

A club night will take place after the bands on Friday and Saturday evening, carrying on the party until 3am.

This event is for over-18s only and ID is required.

Find out more by contacting Rockbitch via Facebook.