In memory of John Simons (1947–2013)
Woo Fest was initially set up in memory of local man John Simons, who passed away at St Richard’s Hospice in 2013, aged 66. Since then, the festival has grown into something that touches the hearts of so many. Here, John’s son Luke Simons picks up the story:
“In 2013 my dad had a really short battle with pancreatic cancer. Two weeks before the diagnosis, we had no idea he was even ill—and then we were told he had about a week left.
He was on a typical hospital ward—lots of noise, little privacy. He took the news bravely, but I could see it was getting to him. Visiting times were limited, and small frustrations began to build.
That’s when St Richard’s Hospice stepped in and transferred him to what felt like a little oasis. He had his own room, we could stay as long as we wanted—even overnight. We played all his favourite music, watched cricket, spent time by his patio and pond, and even celebrated his granddaughter’s third birthday there.
The nursing care was incredible. Everything was sorted—his will, a haircut, even a curry delivery! But more than anything, the hospice gave us peace. We had time to come to terms with what was happening. Even planning his funeral music became something we could face together.
One of the songs he chose was Alright Now by Free. He said, ‘I won’t be alright—I’ll be dead!’ That was Dad all over. Strange sense of humour, but always himself.
I know it sounds odd, but I actually have good memories from those last few days. Thanks to St Richard’s, they weren’t just bearable—they were meaningful. We had dignity, comfort, even laughter.
When I first walked into the hospice, I thought, ‘This is it. This is where people come to die.’ But I now know that’s not true. People come here to live—whether that’s for days, weeks or months—and to spend quality time with the people they love. That’s why St Richard’s deserves every ounce of support.
In 2014, wanting to give something back, a group of us organised a charity challenge along 140 miles of the River Severn. We called it Source to Sauce. It raised great money, but what surprised us was how much we raised at the after-party—just friends and family, music, and laughter.
A few beers in, I said to a mate, ‘Next year we should do a music festival.’ He said, ‘Yeah right, Luke.’ But I’m glad to say we did it—and it was fitting. My dad loved music.
We’ve now run 11 Woo Fests and 7 warm-up events. We’ve got an incredible team of volunteers, sponsors, technicians, and amazing musicians who’ve supported us every step of the way. Our audience keeps coming back, and we try our best to give them a weekend to remember.
Raising over £218,000 for St Richard’s so far is beyond what we ever expected. To break £40,000 in 2025 alone was mind-blowing.
Our volunteers include people personally touched by the hospice and others who simply want to give back. In other words—amazing people.
Why the name? Simple—Woo is local slang for Worcester… and let’s face it, we think it’s a bit ‘woo’!”
