A Victorious legacy that will last is a great idea

Tens of thousands will descend on Southsea Common to enjoy music from the likes of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Manic Street Preachers, Mark Ronson, The Levellers, Ash, The Coral and Will Young.

Festival-goers are happy to part with their hard-earned cash to see such a stellar line-up in the city. But today we happily report how the money they hand over won’t just be going into the bank accounts of the bands and the people who organise the festival.

Instead there is a plan to leave a lasting legacy by creating the event’s own charity that will be dedicated to supporting worthy causes all year round.

The Victorious Foundation would have its own board of directors, who would have control over money made available for community projects.

The emphasis would be on supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people and inspiring them to achieve. Money would also be spent on improving the area around where the festival is held.

It’s a fantastic idea and is all about putting something back, says Victorious boss James Ralls.

This is no airy fairy notion. Money from last year’s festival is already going towards good causes.

For instance £8,464 has been set aside for Southsea Skatepark and £28,116 is being put towards the replacement of the fountain near Southsea Castle with an interactive one for children with water jets.

We think it’s great that the festival organisers have shown they have a social conscience and really care about their community.