As the dust settles over Boomtown music festival for another year, the Echo looks back at a Winchester dance festival some will never forget.

The city transformed into a pulsating metropolis of electronic euphoria on the last Saturday of May in 2004 as tens of thousands of revellers descended upon the historic city for Homelands, one of the nation’s most coveted dance events.

The annual festival, which was in its seventh year, drew an estimated 35,000 music enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in a seventeen-hour marathon of world-class DJ sets and electrifying performances.

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From the moment the gates opened on Saturday afternoon at 'The Bowl', Matterley Estate near Winchester, until the sun began its ascent on Sunday morning, the area came alive with the infectious energy of dance music.

Five colossal arenas, each equipped with cutting-edge sound and lighting technology, provided the backdrop for an unparalleled auditory and visual experience.

The lineup was a veritable who’s who of the dance-music scene of the time, boasting legendary acts such as Judge Jules, Paul Van Dyk, and Roger Sanchez.

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Festival-goers were treated to a mesmerizing performance by Faithless, whose electrifying live set cemented their status as one of Britain’s most beloved bands.

The iconic Pete Tong also graced the stage, captivating the crowd with his signature blend of house music.

So Solid Crew were originally on the rota but were dropped over fears they may attract trouble - something they were gaining infamy for at the time.

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Beyond the music, attendees were able to explore a vibrant fairground, indulge in a variety of culinary delights, and browse an eclectic assortment of stalls.

The event was a resounding success, with both organizers and local authorities praising the atmosphere and cooperation of the crowd.

The festival’s impact extended beyond Winchester, as portions of the event were broadcast live on Radio 1, introducing the magic of the festival to a nationwide audience.

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As the final beats faded into the dawn, it was clear that the year’s festival had set a new benchmark for electronic music events in the UK, solidifying Winchester’s position as a must-visit destination for dance music lovers.