Barnfield Construction celebrates 50th Anniversary with headline sponsorship of 35th Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival
Barnfield Construction has been confirmed as the headline sponsor for the 2026 Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival in Colne, marking a significant milestone year for both the company and the much-loved Lancashire event.
A long-standing supporter of the festival since 2014, Barnfield Construction’s involvement has been instrumental in its continued growth and success. This year’s partnership carries added significance as Barnfield celebrates its 50th anniversary, while the festival itself marks an impressive 35 years.
The announcement was made via a special video filmed at Barnfield’s Spring Mill site in Earby, featuring a unique performance from Festival Co-ordinator Simon Shackleton, who played guitar alongside the Barnfield team.
Excitement is already building for the award-winning festival, which recently secured its second consecutive UK Blues Award for Blues Based Festival of the Year, having also won in 2019. This latest accolade cements its place in the UK Blues Hall of Fame and further highlights its national significance.
Taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend from 28th to 30th August, the festival, organised by Colne Town Council and Colne Blues Society, will once again bring world-class blues talent to Colne. Around 50 artists are set to perform across three main venues – the Pendle Hippodrome, the Muni Theatre and the Little Theatre.
The 2026 line-up is already generating strong anticipation, with major names including Walter Trout, Dom Martin, Mike Sanchez and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys confirmed, alongside many more still to be announced.
Tim Webber, Managing Director of Barnfield Construction, said: “We’re incredibly proud to continue our long-standing support as headline sponsor of the Colne R&B Festival for the 13th consecutive year. This partnership means even more to us in 2026 as Barnfield celebrates its 50th anniversary, alongside the festival’s remarkable 35-year milestone. Both anniversaries reflect a shared commitment to community, culture and opportunity, and we’re delighted to play a part in sustaining such a vibrant and much-loved event.”
Nathan Cutler, Events and Facilities Officer at Colne Town Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have Barnfield Construction back on board as our main sponsor. They are crucial to this event and have supported the festival for more than 10 years. Their continued commitment plays a huge role in helping us deliver such a high-quality experience for visitors and the local community alike.”
Festival Co-ordinator Simon Shackleton said: “Barnfield’s backing over the years has been incredibly important to the festival. Their commitment, not just financially but in their genuine enthusiasm for what we do, helps us continue to grow and attract world-class artists to Colne. It’s fantastic to have them as headline sponsors in such a special year for both of us.”
Alongside the main stages, the Official Fringe will once again transform the town, delivering more than 150 additional performances across venues throughout the weekend.
Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Colne for the event, which offers far more than music alone. With street entertainment, a funfair, street food stalls and a vibrant mix of local businesses, the festival promises something for everyone.
A wide range of ticket options is available for the main venues, including full festival passes, day tickets, and afternoon and evening session tickets, ensuring accessibility for all audiences.
Festival and camping tickets can be purchased at www.bluesfestival.co.uk/tickets/
