
The Turtle Z’s Rock Ayclive Festival 2024 in Newton Aycliffe
The Turtle Z’s, a local 4-piece band, delivered an electrifying performance at Ayclive Festival 2024 in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham. On July 27th, at the OakLeaf Sports Field, the band took the Husqvarna stage by storm, paying tribute to the iconic classic rock of the 1970s.
Formed over five years ago, The Turtle Z’s – comprising lead singer and guitarist Gary Bennett, guitarist and backing vocalist Billy Slater, bassist and backing vocalist Steve Mears, and drummer and backing vocalist Pete Hudson – showcased their talent and passion for 70s rock to an enthusiastic Newton Aycliffe crowd.
The band’s setlist was a journey through the golden age of rock, featuring unforgettable renditions of hits by legends like Thin Lizzy, Pink Floyd, Whitesnake, Bad Company, Santana, David Bowie, ZZ Top, and Judas Priest. Their performance transported the Ayclive Festival audience back to the days of FM radio and stadium-filling concerts, with impressive guitar solos, soaring vocals, and tight rhythms.
With four decades of combined experience, The Turtle Z’s flawlessly captured the sound and spirit of 70s rock mastery. Festival-goers in Newton Aycliffe sang along with every power chord as the band cranked up the classics, their passion for the icons of 70s rock shining through in every note.


The Turtle Z’s performance at Ayclive Festival 2024 was a highlight for classic rock enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic journey through rock ‘n’ roll history right in the heart of County Durham. Their appearance contributed significantly to the festival’s diverse musical lineup, showcasing the rich talent within the local Newton Aycliffe music scene.
As Ayclive Festival continues to establish itself as a key event in Newton Aycliffe’s cultural calendar, performances like that of The Turtle Z’s help to attract visitors from across County Durham and beyond, boosting the local economy and community spirit.
The success of The Turtle Z’s at Ayclive Festival 2024 has further cemented Newton Aycliffe’s growing reputation as a destination for music lovers and festival-goers in the North East. Their electrifying show stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rock and the vibrant local music scene in County Durham.


friends of the festival
We are proud to collaborate with a diverse range of partners who share our passion for bringing the community together. Their support allows us to enhance the Ayclive experience and deliver an unforgettable weekend. As a Community Interest Company (CIC), we rely on the generosity of our partners to help us give back and make the festival bigger and better every year.
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