Bestival reportedly saved from administration after buyout

Bestival has been bought out by a Dorset-based businessman shortly after reportedly falling into administration.

Both Bestival and Camp Bestival are now said to be under the ownership of James Benamor, who has paid £1.1m for an event which, from its long-term base on the Isle Of Wight grew from humble 2004 beginnings to become one of the UK’s most popular summer festivals under the stewardship of Rob Da Bank.

It moved to Dorset in 2017 after complaints of general onsite down-scaling had brought unusually negative headlines a year earlier. A statement from Benamor quoted by The Guardian reads:

“We have been fans and supporters of Bestival since the beginning. Our children have grown up with wonderful memories of these festivals. Bestival is an example of Dorset being world class and we are keen to ensure that this fantastic institution goes on to delight families and local businesses for many years to come.”