ONE of the organisers of a new youth group music festival has said she is 'hugely excited' for its big debut this weekend.

George Hicks, who runs the Sweatbox youth club in Wantage, hopes the first 'What The Fest!' on Saturday will be 'amazing day' for the whole community.

The event, at Wantage Town Football Club from midday to 8pm, has been organised by the teenage youth club members over the past six months, and promises something for everyone.

Mrs Hicks, who took over running the Sweatbox last year, said: "As with our previous events Rock in the Park and Dylanfest, we will be running a full programme of live music featuring local bands, stalls, food, drink, workshops, a community art project and more.

"We have two stages this year, the Live and Loud Stage in the tent and also an acoustic stage.

"As in previous years, the focus is very much on young people, positive wellbeing and community. We will be hosting stalls run by many local services who support young people and will be featuring Dyl Ville - our very own mental health and wellbeing village with the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust, Wantage Counselling Service and hygge tent."

Organisers of Wallingford's Om and Bass festival,who held their own event this weekend, will be offering a 'contemporary take' on yoga at the Wantage event.

Among the local bands will be four-piece indie rock group The Foliants. Guitarist Ben Ireson said: "We are pumped to give it our all to help this amazing cause".

The festival will be closed by Sweatbox favourite DJ Carl, with his 'End of the Show Show, It's not a Rave, It's a Dance Party'.

For those who prefer a calmer atmosphere, the acoustic stage will feature talented local acts including Eloise Reeve, Daze and Nina Jade.

The festival will also include a talk from author Hope Virgo, who uses her experiences of mental health to encourage people 'to get well and help break the stigma around mental illness'.

Mrs Hicks added: "When the community comes together, we all have an amazing day".

Since losing its former home at King Alfred's Academy East Site, Sweatbox 'on tour' has been hosting a wide range of events such as a roller disco, zorb footballing and 'extreme laser tag'.

The club was recently granted £10,000 by Grove Parish Council, which will help to fund its modern new building at King Alfred's Centre Site, opening on September 21.

Mrs Hicks said: "All our your volunteers had had a say in the overall make up of the building and we are very excited to have a proper home again."

Visitors to 'What The Fest!' will be asked for a £3 donation, and under-11s go free.