SUMMER is over and the music festival season is already fading into a series of fuzzy memories.

But while the al fresco fun may be over, autumn brings the, frankly more appealing, prospect of rocking out to great music in the warmth and comfort of the great indoors.

And for those who can’t quite let go of the festival spirit, a group of music lovers have the perfect autumn antidote.

With an impressive line-up of local bands all playing in the garden of a proper village pub, LionAid is the perfect music all-dayer. And the best thing is that it is also raising money for two very good causes.

Taking place at the Red Lion in Eynsham this Saturday, September 14, LionAid is a fundraiser in support of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Eynsham Food Bank.

It is organised by Pete Moore, who runs the pub’s monthly open night mic, and local radio presenters Rich Craven and ‘Deadly’ Dave Crabtree (who takes his nickname from his footballing prowess) from Get Radio’s Melting Pot.

Becky Sumner of the Red Lion in Eynsham and 'Deadly' Dave Crabtree

The event starts at 2pm with Pete Moore and is followed by sets from Sun Fly, an as-yet unannounced special guest, The Sham Cartel, Shakedown Prophets, The Kokroachez, Kanadia and ska outfit The SpiraliteS.

It follows an inaugural event last year. Deadly explains: “Following the success of last year’s event, which raised almost £3,000 and a stack of items for the food bank, the team at the Red Lion are looking to go even better this year.

“With a line-up of some of the most talented bands in Oxfordshire, LionAid is a mini-all day festival, held in the back garden of the pub.

Becky Sumner, who has been landlady at the pub since March 2022, is a supporter of the Eynsham food bank, helping to store food and providing space for them to make up their Christmas boxes.

Becky Sumner of the Red Lion in Eynsham and Pete Moore

She said “Last year’s event was so special. We had some great bands give up their time and perform. We were overwhelmed by the support from not just the wonderful community here in the village, but from around Oxfordshire.”

She adds: “Christmas is such a hard time for many people struggling with the cost of living, the Eynsham Food bank do great work all year round, but especially at Christmas helping families.

“But I always wanted to raise money for two charities and after my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes last year, I wanted to help the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation who provide such great support for those living with the condition.

“There are so many misconceptions about type 1 diabetes which is incurable and needs to be constantly managed, so we felt having a music festival seemed to be the most logical and best way to raise money, food and awareness for both of these causes.”

Kanadia playing Common People in Oxford. Picture by Guy Henstock

And she has a keen team of supporters.

“Becky has done a fantastic job of bringing live music back to the Lion and is so passionate and supportive,” says Pete, who plays in the band Mid-Air,.

“When she first suggested the idea of a festival, I was only too happy to offer support in asking the bands to play and help organise the running of it. So after the success of last year, how could I not help out again?

“We’ve got a great mix of covers and original bands lined up this year. Sadly, my band are unable to play, but I have the privilege and honour of opening the festival this year and will be bringing some friends along to help with the first set, including the talented singer Maisie Hatton who shall be performing a couple of numbers.”

Deadly, who has a long pedigree in Oxford bands as well as being John Otway’s long-suffering roadie, can’t wait to get stuck in.

“Last year’s event truly showed Eynsham at its finest,” he said.

“I spent all-day on the sound desk last year. My feet hurt, my arms ached and my ears were ringing.

“It was a very long day and I slept well that night, but what a day. A day where the community got together and raised so much for such good causes

“Becky did an incredible thing and Pete booked some truly brilliant bands and artists – and it looks like it will be another truly epic day again this year.”

Becky agrees, saying: “To have bands of this calibre play, really means so much to me.

“There is really something for everyone to enjoy and I’m really grateful to Pete, Rich and Deadly for doing such a great job to make the day run so smoothly. We will be holding a raffle and I would like to thank all of the businesses and organisations who have donated some excellent prizes. There will also be a barbecue.

Donations to Eynsham Food Bank

“Hopefully we can raise even more money, food and awareness for these great charities this year.

She added: “Although entry is free, we ask that people bring non-perishable goods for the food bank and small change, have a burger, drink some quality beverages and party to some of the best bands and artists in Oxfordshire... and the world!”

LionAid is at the Red Lion in Eynsham this Saturday, September 14. The music starts at 2pm