A heavy metal festival coming to Swindon will celebrate the 45-year career of the town's global heavy metal star.

Steve Grimmett, the lead singer and songwriter of British heavy metal band Grim Reaper, sold millions of albums after he left his home in West Swindon for world tours and famous friends.

The frontman joined the band in 1982, replacing Paul de Mercado on vocals, and during his career, Grimmett shared the stage with big names including Bon Jovi and Depp Purple.

He was particularly known for his piercing voice.

Swindon Advertiser: Heavy metal star and frontman Steve Grimmett, who died in 2022, was originally from West Swindon.Heavy metal star and frontman Steve Grimmett, who died in 2022, was originally from West Swindon. (Image: Evil Empire)

But after being taken ill with a leg infection while touring in 2017, the Swindon star had his leg amputated and went through life-saving surgery in Ecuador, before returning home to Swindon's Great Western Hospital.

Steve Grimmett died unexpectedly in August 2022, aged 62, following complications from diabetes.

Now his wife, Millie Grimmett, is preparing to celebrate her husband's life and legacy in Swindon at the Wings of Angel Festival coming to the MECA later this year.

“Steve’s life was heavy metal. He got so much pleasure out of performing onstage, meeting fans and recording music," said Millie.

"It’s only right that the Wings of Angels Festival pays tribute to that through a packed line-up of metal acts from near and far.

"We’re looking forward to a sold-out festival, amazing music and a fitting celebration of Steve’s life.”

Swindon Advertiser: Steve left his world tour and returned to Swindon following his leg amputation in 2017.Steve left his world tour and returned to Swindon following his leg amputation in 2017. (Image: Thomas Kelsey)

The festival is named after the lead track of the Grim Reaper's 2018 album Walking in the Shadows, and former WASP guitarist Chris Holmes who will headline the event hopes to bring in Grim Reaper fans from far and wide.

“We have had people contact us from around the world to purchase tickets and to join us in Swindon for the festival," added Millie.

"It is really heartwarming to see this outpouring of affection for someone who did so much to shape the metal scene over several decades.”

Sharing memories of the Swindon star, guitarist Steve Stine said: "As a musician, he was very inspirational to a lot of people.

"He made amazing music and was an amazing person, so keeping the spirit of Steve alive is very important."

Wings of Angels Festival will be held at Swindon’s MECA on Saturday, November 23 and tickets are available now.