Hevy Music Festival is to change venue this summer

Hevy Music Festival will not take place at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park this summer.

For the past three years the hardcore, punk and metal music event has been held at the 600-acre estate near Hythe.

But Port Lympne announced today that although Hevy's organisers had hoped to use the site for a fourth year running, no agreement has been reached and no contract signed.

It contradicts the current information on Hevy's website, stating that the event will be taking place at Port Lympne from Friday, August 2 to Sunday, August 4.

Festival director James Dutton confirmed Hevy is moving to a new venue in Kent - which can't yet be revealed.

James, who lives in Canterbury, said: "Hevy is definitely still going ahead. We are still going to be in Kent, on the same dates in August. I have spent the last six months looking at new venues, and we have one lined up, but we are still sorting contracts so I can't reveal it yet. I can say it is closer to London."

Hevy began as a one-day event at Folkestone Harbour back in 2009, headlined by Feeder and supported by Ash and Gary Numan. It was the brainchild of James and fellow music fan Claire Baker, keen to offer an "alternative" music festival with a diverse line-up.

It has grown every year, and this year's three-day festival will feature performances from more than 80 bands.

James said: "I feel sad as I have really enjoyed being at Port Lympne for the past few years, but we needed more space."

He added: "All tickets which have already been bought will of course be valid at the new venue."

For information visit www.hevy.co.uk.