MUSIC lovers have shared their hopes for next year’s Colchester Castle Summer Series.
Headline acts for the string of concerts included The Smashing Pumpkins on August 14, Busted on August 15, Craig David on August 16, Tom Jones on August 18, Texas on August 21, and Madness on August 23.
Two festivals also happened, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell headlined reggae day festival Roots East on August 17, which Mr Campbell spoke to the Gazette about.
Meanwhile Manchester group James headlined the Out of Time Festival on August 22.
Now fans have shared their views on which acts they would love to headline the event next year.
Headline act – The Smashing Pumpkins on stage (Image: Gem Harris / Colchester Castle Summer Series) Lesley Watson, 58, of Clacton, watched the James and Madness concerts at this year’s Colchester Castle Summer Series and praised them for being “well organised”.
And she already has her eye on acts she would love to see grace Colchester next year.
She said: “This year’s Summer Series in Castle Park was just, wow, so many great acts visited our fabulous city.
“Next year, among others, I would love to see The Lathums, Courteeners, The Meffs, Johnny Marr, Shed 7, Billy Ocean, Suede, Bad Manners, The Prodigy, The Proclaimers and Del Amitri.
Colchester resident Jack Morgan, 31, said: “I am excited as to who will be performing next year.
“I was unable to get tickets to some of the shows and heard a lot of people outside of Colchester travelled to come to these events.
“It would be nice if residents could be involved in a presale for 2026.
“I am holding out Dolly Parton and The Purple Dawgs will come next year.”
Steve Hurdle, 45, co-owner of Best Days Vintage in Eld Lane, is a fan of indie rock bands so he would like to see a range of rockers take to the stage next year.
Mr Hurdle said: “It’s amazing for Colchester to be able to host such amazing events. Long may it continue and grow.
“Each event seemed to be a massive success, and it can only be great for tourism and businesses like ours.
“I’d love to see the bands keep coming, maybe Keane, The Strokes, Primal Scream, Paul Weller and Manic Street Preachers.”
Colchester resident Dean Frost said: “I’m thrilled to hear it’s returning.
“I’d like to see Bob Dylan headline.”
Resident Maxiene Cartwright said: “I went to see UB40, Tom Jones & Madness, loved them all.
“It was very well organised in the accessible area with lovely, helpful staff.
“I would love to see Robbie Williams, Lewis Capaldi, Ed Sheeran or Teddy Swims.”
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source uk.news.yahoo.com ’
