THIS weekend’s Rhythms of the World will almost certainly go ahead whatever the weather, say festival organisers.

The festival is due to be held Saturday and Sunday in Hitchin Priory grounds.

And, despite the heavy rain and weather warnings, organisers have said that they are “99.9 per cent sure” the festival will happen.

They have reported that the set-up and draining of the ground is going well. They have also told the Comet that if any extreme weather occurs over the next few days, the site will be assessed with any announcements made online, and via Facebook and Twitter.

Chairman of the organising committee, Gill Hannington, said: “We’re encouraging everyone to come down to Rhythms of the World this weekend.

“The festival brings the best local and international talents to Hitchin for the whole family to enjoy and with tickets starting at just �5 per day, it’s no wonder we were voted one of the Songlines Magazines Top 10 UK Summer Festivals.

“The weather won’t affect the weekend - just make sure you bring your wellies, waterproofs and suncream to cover all eventualities.”

As well as music to suit all tastes, there will be a family area with face painting, music workshops and entertainment, a host of young talent on the Icehouse Stage and an array of food and craft stalls from around the world.

Organisers are asking people whenever possible to avoid driving down Tilehouse Street and Bridge Street, to ensure emergency vehicle access at all times.

Parking is available in Butts Close, although an inspection is due to be held on Thursday to assess the situation. Festival goers are being encouraged to get a train or walk where possible.

Tickets will be available to buy on the day, but organisers are advising people to buy in advance. They are available from a range of venues including Harvest Moon, Merryfields Newsagents, Hitchin Initiative offices, Club 85 and The Victoria Pub in Hitchin, David’s Music in Letchworth GC and Coda Music in Stevenage Old Town. In the very unlikely event the festival is cancelled, tickets will be refunded.

Gates open on Saturday at 11am and close at 9pm. Performances start at noon and end at 11pm. On Sunday, gates open at the same time and close an hour earlier at 8pm. Performances start at noon and end at 9pm.

Going to the festival? Tweet @thecomet24 your pictures, videos and views, or email laura.burge@thecomet.net

You can also submit multi-media at iwitness24.co.uk

For more on what to expect and a profile on the bands playing at the festival, see this week’s Venue on page 37.