Blue, Fleur East and the Fun Lovin’ Criminals are among the big names set to play a popular Worcestershire festival.

Mello Festival returned to Upton Upon Severn last year after a three-year absence because of the pandemic, with Rag n Bone Man and Ella Henderson topping the bill.

Now the line-up for 2023 has been announced with organiser Steve High calling it “the best we’ve ever had”.

Early noughties boyband Blue are set to headline this year’s festival, which takes place from May 26-29 at Quay and Pattern Meadow in Upton.

Malvern Gazette: Strictly Come Dancing star Fleur East is coming to UptonStrictly Come Dancing star Fleur East is coming to Upton (Image: BBC)

Fleur East, recently seen on Strictly Come Dancing, is one of two former X Factor contestants lined up for Mello, alongside Rebecca Ferguson.

Britpop legends Dodgy and Space, as well as 90s rockers Reef are also on the bill, as are Welsh rap stars Goldie Lookin Chain.

Chart-toppers The Hoosiers are set to make their debut at Mello Festival and superstar DJ Brandon Block will also be doing his thing in Upton.

READ MORE: Rag n Bone Man, Ella Henderson and more at Mello Festival 2022

The festival will also feature The Brand-New Heavies, one of the most successful acid jazz/UK funk groups of all time, Star Sailor, Just Jack, Sandi Thom, The Funk Masters, Deco, The Leylines and Slip Matt.

According to the organisers, this year’s festival will feature four stages, a Rum & Reggae bar, a shopping village and entertainment for all ages.

Organisers hailed last year’s festival as a success despite taking place on a rainy Jubilee weekend.

Steve High said: “All the top acts were sensational, so professional and easy to work with.

Malvern Gazette: Goldie Lookin Chain performed at Mello last year and will be back for more in 2023Goldie Lookin Chain performed at Mello last year and will be back for more in 2023

"Although there were so many other events on this weekend, we were amazed how many attended and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

"The atmosphere was brilliant from the minute they arrived on Thursday.

"We did go quiet on the Sunday after the amazing show by Ella Henderson but people did have work and school the next day.


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"The weather never dampened spirits at all.

"After a three year absence, it was fantastic to see Mello back and making so many people happy.

"We tried hard to keep the ‘chilled’ atmosphere and with so many entertainment sites to visit , there was plenty going on.”