Wish You Were Here: Former Town Estate CEO plans farewell festival for Melton
Former Melton Mowbray Town Estate CEO Dean Rees is inviting the people of Melton to a very special celebration of life, music and community spirit following his terminal diagnosis.
Dean, who stepped down from his role after three years, is organising his own farewell festival, Wish You Were Here, on Saturday 1 May 2027, from 1pm to 7pm, in New Park, Melton Mowbray.
The free event will bring together live bands, DJs, dancing and family entertainment, with all proceeds going to LOROS Hospice, a charity close to Dean’s heart.
During his time as CEO, Dean and his team worked to develop a programme of community events aimed at putting Melton Mowbray back on the map.
Following his diagnosis, Dean shared his news publicly and explained that he wanted to organise one last celebration for the people of Melton.
The response has been overwhelming, with messages of support from across the community.
Dean hopes to attend the festival himself but has made it clear that he wants everyone to enjoy the day regardless of how he is feeling.
In his Facebook announcement, he wrote:
“If I am well enough I will see you there. Even if I can only be there in spirit, I wish you all a fantastic time.”
Music, dancing and family entertainment
The festival promises an eclectic mix of live music and DJs, with something for different tastes and generations.
Plans also include Bhangra dancers and traditional dhol drummers, reflecting Dean’s family’s Indian heritage, alongside a few surprises yet to be announced.
There will be food, drink, children’s rides, games and activities, making it a celebration for the whole family.
Local events company McCue The Music is helping Dean with the event’s creative design, music programming and promotion.
Andrea McCue, founder of McCue The Music, said: “Dean wants this to be a celebration, not a sombre occasion. He wants people to come together, enjoy the music, have a dance and make some wonderful memories.
“We’ve designed the Wish You Were Here artwork around a traditional holiday postcard, with a slightly cheeky twist, which really captures the spirit of what Dean wants to achieve.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to have been asked to be involved in such a personal and meaningful event, and to help Dean bring his vision to life.”
Can your business help?
The festival has already received generous support, with Dean securing donated staging, sound equipment, bar and food provision.
Organisers are now appealing to local businesses and individuals for further help to make the day a success.
They are particularly looking for a printing company willing to sponsor 2,000 full-colour, double-sided A6 postcards, along with a signage company able to provide eight promotional banners.
Children’s entertainers are also invited to get involved by donating an hour or two of their time. Magicians, balloon artists, circus performers and anyone offering suitable family activities would be very welcome.
Other offers of sponsorship, goods, services or practical support would also be appreciated.
Andrea added: “There’s already been some fantastic generosity, and we’d love more local businesses and entertainers to get involved.
“Every contribution, however small, will help us create a memorable day for Dean and the people of Melton while raising as much as possible for LOROS.”
Fundraising activities are also being planned ahead of the festival to help cover remaining event costs.
Get involved
Anyone interested in supporting Wish You Were Here through sponsorship, printing, banners, children’s entertainment or other contributions can contact:
Andrea McCue – McCue The Music
[email protected]
Wish You Were Here – Dean’s Farewell Festival
Saturday 1 May 2027 | 1pm–7pm
New Park, Melton Mowbray
Free admission – everyone welcome
In support of LOROS Hospice.