CHIPPENHAM was rocking and rolling as a festival to celebrate the life and music of Eddie Cochran was held in the town for the first time in almost ten years.

Held at the Olympiad Leisure Centre on Saturday and Sunday (October 1-2) – as well as a pre-party at the Constitutional Club on Friday (September 30) – rock ‘n’ roll fans were treated to a number of local bands, many of whom played covers of the American’s music.

The 21-year-old musician was killed on April 17, 1960, following a car crash on the A4 in Chippenham after performing at a gig in Bristol.

Acts to perform at the event included The Runaways, The Quantums and Johnny Flame and The Dragons amongst others.

Gareth Inker, of Rockabilly Western, who organised the event, said: “Those who attended loved it from the feedback and are booking again and bringing more people.

“It was a great event, positive comments and bookings are coming in already for next year.”

Next year’s event has already been planned and will take place from September 22-25 and will include free camping at the Chippenham Area Farmer’s Field.

Acts lined-up to perform include Charlie Gracie supported by Class of 58, Charlie Hightone and The Rock It’s and John Lewis as well as others.

It’s hoped money from the event will be used to build a statue in memory of Cochran as well as repair a plaque on Rowden Hill which marks the spot of the American musician’s crash.

For more information or to book a ticket, visit http://www.rockabilly-western.com