A POPULAR music festival set up by a family in memory of their son is back in town.

CozFest makes its return to Sible Hedingham this weekend.

The annual music festival is organised to celebrate the memory of Corran ‘Coz’ Powell.

He was just 21 when his car was involved in a head-on collision in Braintree Road, Gosfield, in 2014.

He was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries and died eight days later without regaining consciousness.

Friend and passenger James Simmons also died in the crash.

It was later revealed the other driver, who died at the scene, was drunk and high on a cocktail of drugs.

To honour Corran, who was a dedicated musician, his family launched CozFest almost a decade ago.

Although it had to be axed in 2020 due to the pandemic, CozFest returned over the last two years and is back again this weekend.

Recently voted Essex Festival of the Year 2022 in the East Anglian Festival Awards, CozFest is described as “a small, up-and-coming festival with a relaxed and chilled-out vibe which is perfect for music lovers who are looking for a unique and memorable festival experience”.

One of the main aims of the event is to introduce new talent to the community and give them the opportunity to perform alongside established professionals at an open-air festival.

In addition to the music, there is a wide selection of food and drink.

Preparations for the event are underway with bands performing including Headrush, Four Kicks The Near Mrs and more.

The top billed bands are It's Not a Phase Mum, Papa Shango and Skamite, with Coz’s brother Jaz Powell will also be back to perform at this year’s festival.

A festival spokesman said: “CozFest is more than just a music festival, it’s a celebration of everything that Coz held dear.

“By bringing people together with excellent music and good times, Coz’s family hope to honour his memory and continue his legacy.

“Whether you’re a fan of local music or simply looking for a fun and relaxed weekend away, CozFest is the perfect destination.”

CozFest is this weekend, Saturday, August 26 to Sunday, August 27.

For tickets, visit bit.ly/3E63Cdl.