A Taunton festival has been shortlisted for a national award.

The Test Fest Music Festival is going head-to-head with a number of big name brands at the UK Festival Awards 2023.

Despite being a considerably smaller event, it's competing in the category "Brand Activation" amongst big names like Stoli Vodka, Brewdog, Amazon Fashion, Lidl, and Absolut Born to Mix.

The final will be held in Manchester on December 5.

Organised by charity It’s in the Bag, the festival began in 2017 as a platform to raise awareness for testicular cancer.

Following low ticket sales after COVID, the charity gave the festival one last chance for survival.

The team determined that the festival was missing its unique selling proposition and did not align with the charity's well-known quirky and colourful image.

The organisers acquired the services of local artist Jonathan Dixon for a revamp, replicating his successful SAS Who Checks Wins awareness campaign.

Consequently, five themes were applied consistently throughout the festival: The blue sky, pants balloons, monsters, the stage, and the words 'TEST FEST'.

Somerset County Gazette: Test Fest began in 2017 as a platform to raise awareness for testicular cancer

Organisers Sue & Bill Brand from the charity "It’s in the Bag" said: "We are so excited and surprised to be shortlisted, but sometimes the passion you have comes out in what you produce.

"It was a risk and we really did mix it up, but it has definitely got us noticed!

"We are looking forward to taking on the big brands as we have learnt the hard way not to be fooled into thinking that your USP sells tickets, it doesn’t."

Test Fest is not just about music; it's about spreading vital health messages.

It’s the only festival of its kind in the UK, and in the world, focusing on the importance of testicular cancer awareness and the necessity of self-checking and early detection.

The upcoming Test Fest event is scheduled for June 15, 2024, at Taunton Rugby Club.

All proceeds from the festival go towards It's in the Bag, which provides support for men diagnosed with testicular cancer across the South West.

The charity stresses the importance of regular self-checking, as detecting testicular cancer early greatly improves the chances of survival.

It’s in the Bag encourages men aged 15 and older to self-check every month and reach out to their GP immediately if they observe anything unusual.

Test Fest encourages music lovers to enjoy the festivities while promoting an invaluable health message.

Ticket information is available at https://buytickets.at/itsinthebagcancersupport/955125.