Preston gearing up for the return of Prestfest

Prestfest is returning to the Flag Market tomorrow with Melanie C from world’s biggest selling girl-group the Spice Girls headlining the event with an exclusive 90’s Mixtape DJ set in the evening.

The event has been organised by Preston’s Business Improvement District (BID) as a celebration of the city’s Purple Flag award which recognises safe places to enjoy a night out.

Preston BID manager Mark Whittle said: “The build up has gone really well; very different than last year in terms of artists and having a strong day event that means it’s a natural flow into the night.”

Gok Wan is fronting Fashion Rocks, a style show taking place on the Flag Market from 11:30am.

Mark added: “Ticket sales have also been good – we’re at least on par with last year – and the weather looks great. I’ve spoken to all the artists who can’t wait for it.”

Mark and the Preston BID team recently carried out a Event Safety Advisory Group where they laid out the whole shape of the event with Preston Council and local emergency services, including police and ambulance.

Mark said: “We do all that to keep people safe. They all know a lot is happening and everyone is on board with it.”

Other acts to play the festival are DJ Sash!, Lovely Laura, Ben Santiago, and BBC Radio 1Xtra’s Ace.