A touching tribute to former Lincoln College Music student Ben

CroftFest, a charity day festival, was held at The Drill on Saturday 6th September in memory of former Lincoln College Music Production student, Ben Croft, who sadly passed away last November.

Ben lived with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and used a wheelchair, but this never stopped him from pursuing his passions. He left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him and loved his college life; playing bass guitar, forming a band called Everything Can Wait, and achieving three Distinction grades at college. Ben was dedicated, highly creative, technically gifted, and never missed a day of college. He was always a joy to be around.

His best friend Scott Cooper, also a former music student at Lincoln College, organised the event, with ticket proceeds going to Muscular Dystrophy UK, supporting vital research and care for those affected by muscle-wasting conditions. Surrounded by friends and family, Ben’s brother, Tom Croft - a former Performing Arts student - delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating Ben’s life.

Scott Cooper said: “We met at Lincoln College when we were 16, studying the same music performance course. Ben was incredibly kind, modest, and one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever known. Despite living with a muscle-wasting condition and using a wheelchair from the age of eight or nine, he never let that stop him from doing what he loved.

“When Ben passed away last year at 32, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful to honour him. Music was his passion, so organising a festival in his memory felt like the perfect tribute. I’m aiming to make it an annual event - a lasting legacy for Ben.”

Sharon Croft, Beauty Lecturer at Lincoln College and Ben’s stepmother, said: “I’m incredibly proud of Scott. He has been planning this since January and has put so much thought and effort into every detail.

“It’s been a deeply emotional time, especially with the first anniversary of Ben’s passing approaching. But I know Ben would have loved CroftFest - it was a beautiful celebration of everything he stood for and enjoyed.”

CroftFest offered a full day of live music, food, and community spirit, featuring alt, metal, and punk bands, including Defences, Blight Town, and Distance Divine. The event also showcased local food stalls, specially designed CroftFest merchandise, and representatives from Muscular Dystrophy UK. The inclusion of wagamama was particularly special, as Ben was a lover of Japanese culture and even visited Japan with Scott in 2017.

It’s not just a gig, it’s a celebration of everything Ben loved, and a chance to make a real difference. With ticket sales and on the day donations, £4,240.19 was raised for Muscular Dystrophy UK. Donations can be made online to support this vital cause.