A Ledbury pub is paying tribute to a much-loved former landlord with a weekend of live music.

Andy Fest takes place at the Talbot Hotel later this month in memory of Andy Ward, who died earlier this year just a couple of years after retiring to the Isle of Man.

Current landlord Richard Jennings said: “He’s a legend in Ledbury. I’d known Andy for 11 years and it was so sad he didn’t get to enjoy much of his retirement.

“He was a great character and because he’d moved to the Isle of Man a lot of people didn’t get the opportunity to pay their respects.

“This seemed like the perfect way to do it. I asked his wife Maria for her approval, of course, so let’s see how it goes. It’s been well received so far and there is a possibility this could become an annual thing.”

Ledbury Reporter: Guests will be encouraged to wear colourful shirts in tribute to Andy WardGuests will be encouraged to wear colourful shirts in tribute to Andy Ward

On Friday, July 29 Gloucester-based covers band The Shy Teds will be performing from 8.30pm onwards. On Saturday, July 30 it’s the turn of The Roadrunners, featuring Dave Beale and former Uriah Heep bassist Paul Newton.

READ MORE: Tributes paid following death of 'larger than life' Ledbury landlord Andy Ward

On Sunday, July 31 Ledbury’s own Nice n Sleazy will be performing from 3pm to 6pm.

A weekend of live music at The Talbot

“We had some groups on for the jubilee weekend and it went well,” said Richard. “Live music always seems to go down really well in Ledbury.

“Fancy dress is a must - Andy was larger than life, he loved his loud shirts and colourful waistcoats, and he was always up for a bit of fun. We all know he would have loved it.”

Ledbury Reporter: Andy Fest will pay tribute to former Talbot landlord Andy WardAndy Fest will pay tribute to former Talbot landlord Andy Ward

Mr Ward’s death in January sparked tributes from not only Ledbury but from its twin town of Stromstad in Sweden.

The former Talbot landlord was instrumental in the formation of the towns’ union and also served as chairman of Ledbury’s tourism association.

He organised the Ledbury English Festival, which ran for five years from 2001, and was a keen supporter of both Ledbury in Bloom and Ledbury Carnival.