A Summer Afternoon with Ward Thomas

In a year spent almost exclusively at home, Ward Thomas have been working hard to bring us new music to enjoy. This summer marks the return of live music performances, and Ward Thomas are excited to be heading back out on the road.

Ahead of their upcoming gig at Bicester Village, we spoke to twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas to find out how they first got into music and their most recent charitable venture.

"We’ve been surrounded by music growing up. Our parents were in a band together, the two of us sang in all the choirs at school, but it was when we watched 'Walk The Line' and heard ‘The Chicks’ that we were inspired to write our music. That helped us realise our voices and harmonies suited the genre that we loved"

"We’re both country girls through and through. We both have dogs and horses and love to ride, walk and enjoy the outdoors. Catherine’s got many hobbies like baking, knitting, and obsessing over her chickens and horses. She’s pushed herself out of her comfort zone and started competing with her horse and loves it. I love to read and also write stories as a hobby. I’ve got a big pull towards Africa, and a big passion of mine is volunteering with conservation. Mostly with primates so far…my next wish is elephants!"

"We have many inspirations as there are so many incredible artists and musicians out there. We love Taylor Swift. We think she’s such an amazing songwriter and a really strong individual and influence to have in the music industry. She’s super smart and we really admire that. We also love Brandi Carlisle! She’s another strong woman and her music is literally our medicine."

"We’ve written a bunch of new songs that we’re currently recording and working on finishing. We’re also very focused on our busking tour at the moment. This is a project we wanted to get started as we’re both super passionate about the environment and wanting to do our bit. So we thought why not busk for our planet every week and try to raise as much money as possible for 5 charities and organisations that cover many different aspects of the environment. We’re aiming to raise £100,000!"

"One of the most special memories was when we sang our song ‘Safe’ in Manchester the day after the Manchester bombings. We both started tearing up on stage when the whole crowd started singing with us, and they finished the song. That was possibly the most moving memory. Another more humorous memory was a few years ago at the Blackdeer Festival. Lizzy caught a baguette with one hand right before our last song, and the crowd all cheered. It was random but funny."

"A good pair of sunglasses, we love a good Ray-Ban and a lovely floaty summer dress"

Quick Fire Round

Favourite clothing purchase you’ve ever made?

A pair of really nice high waisted 60’s style jeans and an All Saints leather jacket

Describe your style in 3 words?

Quirky, relaxed and random

Who/what inspires you?

Each other

Best habit?

Daydreaming

Worst habit?

Talking over people

Best advice you’ve ever received?

Stay honest and true