Over the Early May Bank Holiday, the Camber Castle pub hosted a two day music and community event called “Camber Calling” that was designed to bring the community together.
They didn’t disappoint! With four music acts, plenty of food choices, a mini craft market, along with facepainting, a medium and a bouncy castle to keep all ages entertained.
Starting on the Saturday, with the sun blazing down (although the threat of rain was ever present), Ritchie “Reggae” Campbell kicked off proceedings with a well -liked set that lasted over two hours.
Playing outside the pub, the tunes carried well beyond the confines of the pub and were enjoyed by all. His artistry and performance would’ve given UB40 a genuine run for their money.
While he sang and entertained, the landlord, Pete Povey got people laughing by dressing up and entertaining the crowd further with an array of costumes – one of which we’re a little nervous about showing.
While Ritchie sang and Pete pranced around, kids were bouncing away on the inflatable castle (a Castle at the Castle) and the crowd basked in the warm sun with plenty of good food and drink.
As Ritchie’s set came to an end, it was not 5mins before the heavens opened – albeit for about 30mins. It didn’t deter people one bit. They scurried to get food and headed inside to keep the party atmosphere going.
As the rain dissipated, the evening’s set was provided by an 8-piece band called Groove 101 delivering an incredible medley of tunes that got people dancing and bopping away until late.
The lead singers, two ladies, harmonised and produced some powerful vocals that entertain the audience for a few hours, while the band worked stunningly well together.
Day 2 started with a mini-craft market. The Camber Community News magazine even had a stall and raised a fairly respectable amount to which we are always grateful for. Also in attendance was a medium who explained people’s future and was constantly busy – even after the craft market had ended.
The first entertainment act was delivered by Olivia Rogers who was a runner-up on ITV’s The Voice and will soon be seen supported McFly in Chelmsford.
Her Abba set was performed flawlessly and got people up dancing quickly and singing along with her. She engaged with the crowd and was very well liked by all.
With the bouncy castle up again along with the facepainting, the second day looked to easily top the first day – and it did.
Along with the most mouthwatering Thai food available, the evening’s entertainment was provided by 4-piece band, The Fireflies whose energy and song choices went down incredibly well.
Knocking out tune after tune, The Fireflies along with Olivia Rogers and Ritchie Campbell were easily the highlights of the weekend.
With the promise of this becoming a regular annual event, credit needs to be given to the team at the Castle who organised this incredibly well. There are already plans afoot to bring Camber Calling back in 2027 for more.
The event in general was well attended by local residents as well as holidaymakers who all experienced the warm welcome that the Castle is known for. It was lovely to see the community coming together to support a local business and just enjoying some good music, good company, good food and have a good time.
Absolute credit to Pete and Julie, Gaz, Wes, Bailey, Dan and Jay for working so hard to produce an incredibly memorable event, and before long, Camber Calling will be a welcome additional to the Camber calendar.
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