FOLLOWING a plea from its founders, "about 95 percent" of ticket holders have come out in support for K-Fest.

The three day festival's second event was scheduled to start on Friday, July 31 at the Rhyl Events Arena.

By holding on to their tickets, festival goers have ensured that the event can go ahead in 2021. In a show of gratitude, the festival's co-founders of Kareem Ghani, Sam Powell and John Marchbank are brining next year's event forward to the first May Bank Holiday weekend to get next summer started earlier for loyal supporters.

Mr Ghani, who formerly ran Kareem's Restaurant on Queen street along alongside his full-time job as a chartered surveyor, said: "About 95 percent of people have kept their tickets - Sam, John and I are more than over the moon about this.

"It means alot and gives us lots of confidence that we have loyal supporters and fans

"We've had many people say that and also message us with positive feedback and comments.

"So, as a response, and because 2020 was a write off, we have come to the agreement that K-fest will be brought forward to the May 1 2021.

"We want to expedite the festival so our loyal followers locally can enjoy some much needed entertainment following all the cancellations and postponements of 2020."

The Journal reported last month of the festival's call for ticket holders to hold off seeking a refund - like many festivals of its size due to take place in this summer - due to fears that the financial impact would hamstring K-Fest's ability to weather Covid-19.

To thank their loyal base, the organisers are upgrading all standard ticket holders to VIP, while current VIPs will get a £10 drinks voucher on entry for 2021.

In addition to the fan support, K-Fest received help from Denbighshire Leisure Ltd and Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies, who helped Mr Ghani secure a Welsh Government business rates grant through Denbighshire County Council.

Mr Ghani added:"It was essential for ticket holders to hold off asking for a refund because it would have severe effects on our cash flow.

"We were very worried because it would have forced us to take out loans forcing us into debt and potentially putting us out of business."

In another crucial instance of goodwill, Mr Ghani has also managed to retain the full lineup for the 'Indie' themed day including headliners Cast, Bez and Goldie Lookin Chain as well as K-Klass, Stu Allan and Ian Van Dahl.

Mr Ghani said: "Having all the acts sign on for 2021 means just as much as ticket holders keeping their tickets.

"Because of the fans and the acts, it means Rhyl gets to keep a worthy and quality music festival."

K-Fest 2021 takes place at the Events Arena on Saturday, May 1, Sunday 2 and Monday 3. For more information on the new dates and ticket sales, k-fest.co.uk.