Residents living in the luxury homes next to Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire, have shared what it is like to have 80,000 festival-goers on their doorstep every August Bank Holiday. While some families go on holiday to avoid the event, others make the most of complimentary tickets and the lively atmosphere.
Mixed feelings on the doorstep
James Batham's home sits opposite the site's main entrance, and he embraces the festival spirit. The dad, in his 50s, said: "It puts Warrington on the map for a reason other than Pete Waterman." His children will attend with friends, using the gated home as a camp site, while he makes bacon butties in the mornings.
Next door neighbour Frank Noone, 73, said his children take advantage of the free tickets, laughing: "I'm more likely to be the one going in on Monday morning to pick up all the tents." He added: "A bit of life around the place is no harm. Nothing bad."
Clean-up and security praised
Event organisers provide a clean-up operation and security for residents. James praised the hospitality: "I think it brings a whole load of positivity to the place." He noted the occasional stray trainer but said "they clean it up pretty quickly."
Denise Karalius, 70, who has lived there since before Creamfields moved to Daresbury, said she leans on her gate and watches the partygoers. She said: "I can't say we have a problem. As long as it's marshalled, we are absolutely fine."
Trade-offs and local business
One anonymous resident said security work is vital, recalling a bag of cocaine in her driveway last year, but added: "The liaison team are great." She also mentioned her son found Nike Jordans on the bin, sold them on Vinted for £80, and said the family now goes on holiday during the festival.
Jan Bird, who runs Growing at Field 28 on Chester Road, shuts her cafe during the festival due to difficulties, including people urinating in gardens. She said: "We have increased security since." However, she praised the organisers: "They communicate with us and, generally, when we call, we get a response." This year, she tried a pop-up selling bacon and sausage butties, but noted the bad weather.
