Shindig Festival to Proceed with Bob Vylan Despite Licence Challenge

The licensing committee of Wiltshire Council has approved Shindig Festival to take place this weekend at Charlton Park, located near Malmesbury, featuring the contentious punk-rap group Bob Vylan as the main act. This ruling came after the South Cotswold Conservative Association lodged a complaint, citing worries over public safety and potential disorder stemming from Bob Vylan's chant of "death, death to the IDF" during Glastonbury Festival. Councillor Elizabeth Threlfall criticized the booking as a "mistake," claiming the band's "violent views" could endanger children. Festival co-director Simon Clarke defended their choice, asserting they have faced "censorship" and emphasized their safety protocols. Previously, the band was removed from Radar Festival, Kave Fest, and a US tour due to revoked visas. Avon and Somerset Police conducted an investigation but took no further steps. Shindig's attorney, Matthew Phipps, mentioned contractual safeguards to avoid licence violations, and the committee opted not to revoke the licence or impose additional conditions. Bob Vylan expressed enthusiasm about their headlining role.