The Ripley Rocks Story
Ripley Rocks began in 2008 when Ripley Scout Group and a few enthusiastic volunteers attempted a small music event in Ripley village in the hope of making some funds for the Scout Group.
We initially started with small stages built in our two scout marquees plus a few side stalls for good luck. We managed to pull together a good number of village musicians and local groups who were more than willing to play for no fee and we were pleasantly surprised at the turnout and appreciation received from the general public.
From that first year we have not looked back, we were subsequently donated an used tent which we were able to adapt and which now makes up the covering for our large and open stage area.
Over the years we have slowly increased and improved our infrastructure which enables us to put on the popular annual music event that it has become.
Fund Raising
Ripley Rocks has always been run with the help of several village institutions, with whom we have been able to share any profits and these have included Elmbridge Model Club, The Shed Youth Club, and Ripley Bowls Club. We have also been able to assist scouts with fund raising for the World Scout Jamboree and have supported local Explorer units and other Scout Groups.
Ripley Scouts are the proud owners of a lovely storage barn which was only possible with the funds from this music festival. More recently we have been able to carry out much needed improvements to our headquarters in Ripley and this has included, new flooring, acoustic panels and a new kitchen, and this building is used by other community organisations.
Supporters
We have a fantastic band of supporters without which Ripley Rocks would not be able to function. Many things have to be organised well in advance of the day, not to mention building all of the infrastructure during the week before the event. On the day we rely on an army of volunteers to help on the gate, with parking, cooking on the barbeque, running the bar and with marshalling, first-aid and security. All of the bands and their equipment have to be loaded on and off the stage whilst the Master of Ceremonies puts on the front of house show.
We also have to thank Ripley Bonfire Committee for the use of their equipment, Ripley Court School for the field and staging, outside stalls for attending, bouncy castle hire and the raffle team. There are also our electricians without whom the whole event would be a non starter, and then there are the sound guys who provide the PA system and stage lighting.
If you would like to join our merry band of helpers we would be very pleased to hear from you.