It was described as “pop fever” in 2002 when at the height of their fame boyband Blue played a concert in the city.

Now - nearly 21 years to the day - the band will headline Upton upon Severn’s Mello Festival this Bank Holiday weekend.

They will take to the stage with the likes of 90s rockers Reef, Newport’s finest Goldie Lookin’ Chain, Sandi Thom, Huey Morgan, Brit Pop royalty Dodgy, Andy Bennett and The Funk Masters.

All four stages and two camping areas will be on Quay & Pattern Meadow in Upton upon Severn. And tickets have been in demand.

However, 21 years ago, Blue were taking part in Wyvern’s XS2002 concert to mark the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.

 

Twelve thousand music-lovers descended on Worcestershire County Cricket Club’s New Road ground to be part of what was described as “one of the most memorable parties to hit Worcester” on June 2, 2002.

Blue were joined by popstars of the day Liberty X, H and Claire and 3SL. Pop Idol's Rik Waller and Irish boyband D-Side also graced the stage.

“A sea of Union Jacks, St George flags and Blue banners gave the party a great atmosphere,” our Worcester Evening News report read.

READ MORE: Mello Festival 2023: Headliners, dates and ticket details

“When boy band Blue arrived backstage, they were greeted by screams and declarations of love from thousands of young adoring fans.”

They performed a 50-minute set and gave fans a sneak preview of a track they were due to play in front of the Queen at Buckingham Palace the following day. 

“One word to sum up the day has to be‘wow’,” said Dean Roberts, festival coordinator. 

“Worcester deserves something like this.”