Grove Cottage in the Park celebrates inclusion and diversity in Bishop’s Stortford

Almost 900 people enjoyed eight hours of entertainment at Grove Cottage in the Park.

The event to raise funds for the home of Mencap in London Road kicked off with a set in Sworder’s Field from DJ Digital Pocahontas, an official Standon Calling Ambassador.

The party supremo, the alter-ego of Thorley Park mum Kelly Rose, hosted the event on Saturday.

She was followed on stage by Steve Young and the Real Time Players, Grove Cottage Performing Arts Club, Clubbercise Sawbo, Bellybelles, Maystones, Grove Cottage Music Man Project, Hrry Oliver DJ set and The Lackeys.

DJ Digital Pocahontas returned for an electrifying dance-off before Darlings closed the show.

A dedicated kids zone ensured all ages had fun and there was also an enticing array of food and drink on offer as the sun shone.

The proceeds of the event are still being counted but Grove Cottage took over over £1,500 in pre-ticket sales.

As well as generating funds, the event was intended to celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Grove Cottage spokeswoman Sarah Smith said: “Our club members loved performing and it was emotional for many.

“To everyone who made Grove Cottage in the Park happen, from the greatest bands and DJs to our wonderful stalls and entertainment, from our staff and volunteers to the scaffolders, printers, stage and sound technicians, to our sponsors, members and every person who purchased a ticket and turned up, Thank you.

“Our goal was to raise awareness and fundraise for Grove Cottage, as well as be a safe place for our members to perform and have a family day out with the community. That’s exactly what we did. We had a blast!”

All pictures by Vikki Lince.