Festival License Under Review Over Headliner's Chants

Just three days before its scheduled opening on May 21, the Shindig Festival, planned for Charlton Park near Malmesbury, is undergoing a critical review of its premises license. The reconsideration, set for May 18, was prompted by concerns raised about potential disorder and public safety issues. These concerns are closely linked to the band Bob Vylan, the festival's headliner.

Last summer, frontman Bobby Vylan led a chant at Glastonbury Festival that was widely condemned as "appalling hate speech" by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. While Avon and Somerset Police conducted an investigation, no criminal charges were filed as the incident did not meet the criminal threshold. Nevertheless, the band faced significant repercussions, including being dropped from several other festivals and a US tour due to revoked visas.

Despite this history, Shindig organizers announced Bob Vylan as headliner in February, citing their belief that "art should challenge as well as unite." They described the band as a vital force for "conversation and change." Wiltshire Council, which granted the license last year, stated it does not influence artist selection but ensures legal compliance. The current license review was initiated under the Licensing Act 2003, with the application citing prevention of crime, disorder, and public safety as grounds.

Festival organizers have affirmed their commitment to safety, stating, "Safety has always come first at Shindig." They are actively collaborating with their production team, the artist, and relevant authorities to develop a comprehensive plan to address the concerns. The license review is being handled by the Northern Area Licensing sub-committee.