MORE than a thousand music fans gathered at a Meon Valley school for a showcase of unsigned British bands, writes Gareth Newnham.

Swanmore College played host to the first Swan Fest music festival at the weekend and featured featuring both local acts and up-and-coming unsigned bands from across the south coast, with many playing for free.

Over £4,000 of equipment was also donated by Whitley PA Hire and Events.

Organisers aimed to raise £1,000 to help pay for road improvements near the college.

Chris Loveday, who helped organise the event, said: “It was a resounding success.

“We wanted it to be a community event, something that was evident by the amount of families that came out during the day.”

Mr Loveday said that the festival would return next year and that they were hoping to get some signed acts to headline.

“We are optimistic that we can bring something, bigger and better but still community focused next year.”