Ep20: Vintage Music, Classic Cars & Community Spirit | Mandy Polkey Interview

Step into the world of vintage music, classic style and community spirit with Mandy Polkey from Stir Events. In this episode of the Your Voice | Dorset Podcast, Mandy shares the story behind the much-loved Shake & Stir Vintage Festival, a Southbourne event that has grown into one of Dorset's favourite summer celebrations. From rock 'n' roll, jive and Lindy Hop to vintage fashion, classic cars and artisan traders, discover what makes this unique festival so special. Mandy also talks openly about the challenges of organising large community events, the difficult decision to introduce ticketing last year, and why Shake & Stir is returning as a free event. This year's festival also takes on an exciting new dimension by partnering with Armed Forces Day, bringing a military village, parade and community celebrations to Southbourne. The conversation also explores Mandy's fascinating career, from retail and economic development to becoming one of Dorset's best-known event organisers, and her passion for bringing communities together through memorable experiences. 🎵 In this episode: • The history of Shake & Stir Vintage Festival • Why vintage music and culture still matter • The return of the festival as a free community event • Armed Forces Day celebrations and the new parade • The work behind organising large-scale public events • Mandy's journey into event management and community development Why Dorset is the perfect place to bring people together If you love local events, vintage culture, community stories and the people who make Dorset such a vibrant place, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 👍 Like, comment and subscribe for more conversations with the people shaping Dorset's communities. #YourVoiceDorset #ShakeAndStir #StirEvents #Southbourne #Dorset #VintageFestival #ArmedForcesDay #CommunityEvents #LocalPodcast #VintageMusic Visit our website: www.dorsetview.co.uk FB:   / dorsetview.news   Insta:   / dorset_view   #podcast #dorset #journalism