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WBR Chamber Honours Ian Sands for 25 Years of International Blues on the Bay Festival

17 June 2024 in Blues On The BayBusinessCommunity

The Warrenpoint, Burren, and Rostrevor (WBR) Chamber of Commerce has honoured Ian Sands for his 25 years of outstanding dedication and contributions as the organiser of the International Blues on the Bay festival. Ian’s passion and commitment have been pivotal in establishing the festival as a key element of Warrenpoint’s cultural and economic fabric.

In a gesture of appreciation, local members of the Chamber presented Ian with a £1,250 voucher from Oasis Travel. This recognition underscores the significant impact Ian has had not only on the music scene but also on the local economy.

Mark Kelly, Chamber President, voiced the community’s gratitude: “Businesses were more than happy to give for this cause, given that Ian has done so much to bring people to Warrenpoint over the years. These music fans come for the music but stay in the local hotels and spend in the local shops. It’s not just a huge musical success but a success for the local economy, and Ian deserves a lot of credit for the hard work and dedication he has shown over the last 25 years.”

Ian Sands, humbled by the recognition, expressed his thanks: “I am overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness and generosity shown by the Chamber, festival musicians, and Warrenpoint’s hospitality venues. A huge thank you to them for supporting the Blues on the Bay for 25 years and helping to give festival fans and tourists a wonderful experience when they come to the Festival.”

He added, “The 25th Blues was such a great anniversary festival. I’d also like to congratulate WBR Chamber on their anniversary – 50 years of keeping the heart of business and tourism beating loudly in Warrenpoint, Burren, and Rostrevor.”

The International Blues on the Bay festival has grown remarkably over the past 25 years, drawing music enthusiasts from across Ireland, the UK, Europe, and beyond. It remains a beacon of cultural and economic vibrancy for Warrenpoint, thanks to the dedication and support of individuals like Ian Sands.