THE inaugural J-Fest – held in memory of a young woman who 'just loved music' – was a big hit.

Hundreds of people travelled from around the country to attend the event in Charney Bassett, near Wantage.

The festival aimed to highlight accessibility and celebrate the life of Jody Dickinson.

She died aged 32 in April, but during her life her family ensured she was surrounded with music by taking her to festivals, raves, nightclubs and other events.

Kyley Dickinson, Jody’s sister and the festival's organiser, was initially worried about upsetting locals with the event but was overjoyed with their ‘amazing’ response to the event.

She said the festival sold over 650 tickets with people travelling from Wales, Cornwall and the north of England.

She said: “What was really fantastic was the number of people there with a disability who came because of what the event was for and how we were doing it.

“When one family from Banbury left they said how amazing it was for everything to feel so inclusive.

“There was not a ‘condescending corner’ for people with disabilities.”

She added another festival-goer, whose son requires additional assistance, said: "It's so nice not to have any patronising pats on the head or comments of “ahh what a shame” which is something they usually experience when out."

As well as celebrating Jody’s life, the festival aimed to be as accessible and inclusive as possible for people of all abilities.

To do this J-Fest used ramped access to the stage, sign language interpreters and a Mobiloo toilet – the most accessible toilet with hoists.

The food catering at the festival was run in conjunction with Steady Chefs, a catering school for young adults with learning difficulties and disabilities.

Kyley described how there are a lot of different areas of entertain which need to become more accessible and is something they hope to bring to the event in the future.

She thanked her ‘amazing’ family and friends her backing her ‘crazy ideas’, as well as Dews Meadow Farm for allowing them to hold the festival.

She said: “We know that Jody would have approved of every single element of the day and the legacy being created in her memory.

“We can’t wait to see everyone again for J-Fest 2022.”