Rox fans turn up in their thousands

Bognor seafront was awash with people from far and wide joining in the annual celebration of creativity.

With performances from the likes of Hugh Cornwell of The Stranglers and Bognor's Big Swing Band, to fringe events including street entertainers and arts workshops, there was something for all age groups during the two-day event.

Organisers hailed the festival, which was held for the first time on the front lawn of the Royal Norfolk Hotel and the Rock Gardens skatepark opposite, as a 'massive success'.

Co-founder Steve Goodheart said: "Rox is now the biggest event in Bognor after the loss of Birdman. It was a stunning success. We had a huge number of people turn out. I would say there were a few more than last year and the location was better than last year. Bearing in mind what the weather was like, the turnout was superb.

"The variety of music played by local and professional bands has been excellent, from classical to rock to blues and jazz."

Mr Goodheart praised the conscientious efforts of the Rox crew, all of whom are volunteers, for making the free event the largest Rox for seven years.

Rox sponsors included Butlins, Nick Shopland of NJS Scaffolding and Chichester University.

"There's a huge amount of backing required to stage the weekend and work needed to keep it going. It probably cost 50,000 to stage Rox last weekend in donations, equipment and time which people gave us," said Steve.

"I can't talk for long enough about all those who helped us to make the weekend work. Without them, it would not happen."

Robin Parker, Rox's head of marketing, said: "We calculated that around 15,000 people attended over the whole two days with 3,500 in the arena at the end of Saturday night '“ so we are really pleased with that.

"With the positive report from police and the encouraging comments from the hotel we will definitely be back next year, subject to successful funding applications and the support of our sponsors."