Wolverhampton to get rocking in memory of mayor Elias Mattu

The Wolves Mayor Rock Fest will this year take place on the weekend of April 7-8 at The Slade Rooms and the Giffard Arms in Wolverhampton.

The festival kicks off at the Slade Rooms on Saturday with a host of different bands, followed by an after-show party at the Giffard Arms on Victoria Street featuring a live set by Rock Revolver.

Money raised from the sessions will go to his chosen charities for 2017/18.

Councillor Mattu died last month following a long illness but organisers were determined to continue with the event to help the causes he supported – Acorns, Sickle Cell Care, Interfaith, Alzheimer’s Society, Street Pastors and Central Youth Theatre.

The festival has been organised by Councillor Ian Brookfield, with support from Doddy White and Facebook fan group Rockers Through the Ages, local Wolverhampton bands, owner of the Giffard Arms Wendy Shone, and Wolverhampton promoter Brett Hall.

Deputy Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Phil Page said: “It’s great to see the Rock Fest back and I am happy that Councillor Brookfield has organised it again.

“We’re looking forward to showing off the fantastic musical talent we have here in the city of Wolverhampton.”

Mayoress of Wolverhampton Asha Mattu, added: “I know this was an event Elias would love to have been at. Not only does it promise to be a great weekend, it will raise money for the six great charities that were so close to my husband’s heart.

“I’d like to thank everyone who is taking part – we have a cast of more than 100 and they are all giving their time for free.”

Bands that will be performing include Voodoo Sioux, Devil Fire, Shyyne, These Wicked Rivers, Mallen, Naked Sunday, Hightale, Unhinged and Seize the Void.

Tickets cost £15 and £8.

Details and tickets are at wolvescivic.co.uk