The Big Green Gathering confirms its return in 2009

The Big Green Gathering is the highlight of the annual calendar for thousands of members, activists and supporters of the Green movement. Britain's largest and liveliest green festival has announced the dates for 2009 (subject to licence) as Wednesday 29th July until Sunday 2nd August. The event will return after a year off in 2008 to the Mendip Hills, near Cheddar, Somerset.

The popular five day family, camping event returns in 2009, and promises to be bigger and better with all the old favourites plus some new innovations.

The Big Green Gathering are currently in talks with Cornwall's Eden Project who hope to have an area at the festival, which will provide entertainment, demonstrations and news of activities at the Eden Project. Penny Kemp, director of the Big Green Gathering said, "Both Eden and the Big Green Gathering share a similar ethos believing that education combined with entertainment is a way of engaging with the public on green issues. The Big Green Gathering is a fun event with a serious message about environmental issues and by showcasing sustainable lifestyles alongside entertainment powered by renewable energy, we are able to show people how they can reduce their carbon footprint in a relaxed, fun atmosphere."

Events and festival promoter Stuart Galbraith managing director of Kilimanjaro has joined the board of the Big Green Gathering and his knowledge festival events will hopefully make the 2009 Big Green Gathering a financial and sustainable success.

Mr Galbraith has one share in the festival as do all the other shareholders. His company, Kilimanjaro, made a loan (which has to be paid back) to the Big Green Gathering along with some other investors to keep the festival going. Mr Galbraith has joined the board of the event and will be standing for election as will other shareholders at the AGM. Just as the original Directors of the Big Green Gathering welcome the input from Mr Galbraith, Mr Galbraith has confirmed that he will be learning how to apply green principles to other festivals that he is involved in.

The Big Green Gathering is held in Somerset, on a farm that has an equally serious commitment to reducing its environmental impact. Brig Oubridge, Chair of the Big Green Gathering said, "The Big Green Gathering is a truly memorable experience. High on the Mendip Hills near Cheddar, an alternative scene is going on. Powered by wind, sun and the people the Big Green Gathering has something for everyone from child to pensioner. Whether you just want to be entertained by clowns, theatre, dance, poetry, cinema or music or listen to daily discussions with panels of prominent experts exploring key green issues, try your hand at pottery or even just wander through the Green Markets, The Big Green Gathering is an essential event."

The Big Green Gathering has a GAMA (green access and mobility area) field ensuring that all members of society have equal access to the festival.

Tickets for the event are £125, children under 12 free and 12-17 £50. Concessions are available to those receiving certain benefits. Tickets will be going on sale in late September.

The Big Green Gathering are still looking for loans and donations to help make next year's event even better.

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