Organisers of music festival Solfest have announced that they have placed the company into liquidation.
In a statement, organisers said it followed a series of significant challenges – many out of the festival team’s control – and had not been an easy decision to make.
The brand had been a staple in the music festival summer calendar for over 20 years.
The statement said: “In the run-up to and during the 2024 event, Cumbria experienced some of the most severe summer weather on record.
“Despite extensive preparation and the efforts of staff, volunteers and partners, the conditions led to cancelled or rescheduled performances and reduced attendance, as many ticket-holders were unable to attend or left early, resulting in a substantial financial impact.
“These losses were compounded by wider pressures facing the live events industry, including rising infrastructure, production, staffing and safety costs, alongside declining ticket sales linked to the ongoing cost of living crisis.
“Like many independent festivals, Solfest has been operating in an increasingly challenging environment.
“In addition, historical debts – which had been carefully managed over time – were significantly exacerbated by these setbacks, placing the company under unsustainable financial pressure.
“Despite every effort to recover, the combined impact of these factors has made it impossible for the business to continue trading in its current form.
“The organisers would like to sincerely apologise to everyone affected by this decision, including ticket-holders, artists, traders, suppliers, staff, volunteers and the local community. This has not been an easy decision, and it is deeply regretted.
“We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to Solfest over the past two decades: from audiences and performers to crew, volunteers, partners and supporters. Solfest has always been built on community, and we are incredibly proud of what has been created together over the years.
“The organisers understand how upsetting this news will be for audiences, artists, traders, staff and the wider community. Further updates will be shared as soon as more information becomes available.”
