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When the first Budstock was held in 1989 somewhere around 100 people were entertained at Budleigh Salterton's first free music festival.

Twenty years down the line more than 1,000 people are expected to attend the one-day event, which was set up by brothers Joe Holroyd and his younger brother Toby.

"My brother Tobs and I were involved in bands with many of our friends," said Joe.

Joe Holroyd on stage with The Akibas

"So it started out as a great way to have some fun and play to an audience.

"From there it grew and we started hearing from other bands from further afield who wanted to play.

"In the early days there were no sponsors, so we'd hold an indoor event to raise money and help pay for the outdoor free ones."

But in 1996 Toby was killed in a car accident and that could have spelled the end of the event.

But Joe felt carrying on was a fitting tribute to his brother.

"When Tobs died Budstock took on a new significance for all of us who knew and loved him, and lots of people travel hundreds of miles every time just to be there and celebrate with us."

It has now become Devon's longest running free music festival - all musicians perform for free.

Budstock is a one-day event

And some high profile names have played over the years - in 1997 a little known trio from Teignmouth called Muse played - and this year the line-up is made up of some 20 bands and live music acts.

"People are often surprised that an event like this happens at all," said Joe.

"Budleigh's a pretty quiet town and the site is a stunning spot on the seafront overlooking Otter Head.

"We have considered making it bigger, finding a new site and charging people, but then it becomes a business rather than a labour of love - that's what gives Budstock such a unique spirit."

Those taking to the stage this year include Clowns from Brighton, The Quails from Teignmouth and acoustic singer-songwriter, Ellie Williams from Exeter.

This year also sees the launch of Budstock Ale, a specially brewed and branded limited edition golden real ale being produced by the Glastonbury Brewery especially for the 20th anniversary.

So what's different after two decades of being the driving force behind the festival?

"It's much harder to organise now," said Joe.

"But we're fortunate to have the support of the local council and the police.

"First aid, public liability insurance, security, portaloos, PA, staging, generators, publicity - it all costs money and we rely on the generosity of local firms to make Budstock possible.

"When you're half way though a license application form, you think you must be mad to do it, but then the day comes around and it's worth all the aggravation."

Budstock
Saturday 1 August 2009
Budleigh Salterton seafront, midday until midnight.