Grow with GLOW: Gig on the Green / Yateley Sports CIC

During this episode of Grow with Glow we’re joined by Colin Ive, one of the driving forces behind Gig on the Green, Yateley’s much-loved community music festival that brings people together, raises major funds and supports local sport and youth culture. Originally started to fundraise for Yateley United Football Club and its growing sports facilities, Gig on the Green has become an annual highlight that brings music, fun and community spirit to the heart of Yateley Green. It mixes local talent with top UK tribute acts, family-friendly entertainment, food, drink and volunteers giving their time to make magic happen. In our chat, Colin shares how the festival began, rallying behind fundraising for the Yateley football teams and supporting the local sports community and how it’s since grown into something even bigger, bringing all the local clubs together and raising well over £1 million for facilities and projects that benefit the town via Yateley Sports CIC. He talks about the real value of football for young people not just the game itself but community, connection and belonging and why offering spaces for kids to watch, play and hang out helps steer energy into something positive and lasting. We dive into what it takes to run a festival like this, the role of volunteers, ticketing, logistics, and how a grassroots event can have a genuine social impact for families, children and the wider Yateley community. Whether you’re into music festivals, community action or youth engagement through sport, this episode celebrates the power of coming together in one big, joyful field.