A POPULAR event which raises money for the community is to go ahead again next year.

The Anti Loo Roll Brigade Festival, which took Colchester's Castle Park by storm last Saturday, is already working on plans for next year's event.

The festival filled Castle Park with 4,500 festivalgoers partying through the showers to the likes of X-Factor’s Fleur East, Toploader and a variety of tribute acts and comedians.

On the topic of the possibility of an event next year, Anti Loo Roll Brigade founder Peter Dutch said: “I cannot confirm anything has been set in stone yet, but there are ongoing plans… Watch this space.

“We have already spoken to the council about pencilling another date. They are supportive, they’ve been so helpful.”

On the effort that went into the event, Peter said: “It took months and months and months to book artists.

"There was also a good eight months of planning and preparation from an awful lot of people."

On funds raised, Peter said: “My gut tells me we probably broke event, but we managed to put on an amazing event for the people of Colchester, whilst giving out a lot of tickets to people who wouldn’t be able to make it otherwise.

“When you get positive feedback from parents with children with special needs, who were able to come to an event like this for the first time, it makes every hour of sweat worth it.”

On the event’s significance, Peter said: “I grew up here and have lived here all my life. I want to create a big community event that the people of Colchester can look forward to, attracting big names.

Peter was meant to attend the BBC’s Make a Difference Award this week. He had been nominated following all his community efforts with the Anti Loo Roll Brigade.

 The brigade was set up during the pandemic as a support network for people who were isolated and has continued its work in the community since.

The Make a Difference Awards were postponed as a gesture of respect following the Queen's death.

They are set to take place later this year.