MEMORIES FROM THE FESTIVAL:

I expect we will all have some great memories from the festival, for me, there are a few, too; the 'Supergroup' of Wilsons/Kimbers/Keelers, the site & sound of John Bromley singing Beatles Numbers in the bar, also of sitting with him at 2.30am, trying to harmonise to a tape of my Dad singing that was recorded in the 1970's!  Also the wonderful experience of hearing people like the Evil Sweeties, Calum Stewart and Anna Louisa, who were all fantastic gems to unearth. The moment that the cello in the Sweeties first struck up, and the look of pleasure on the faces of those in the Bar when they first witnessed this, and of course Calum Stewart silencing the Marquee, even the drunks at the bar shut up to listen in awe to this fine young musician. 

Dave Ellison finally realising what he had let himself in for when stepping into the breach to cover for Ron Gardner (Get Well Soon Ron), Dave E was a star & a wonderful 'MC' too.

Dave "Mini-chin" Minikin ran the cellar bar to perfection, presiding over many a grand session, and still had energy to perform with the excellent Beeeswing, and step in when I ran out of energy in the Marquee.

John & Caroline Bushby, and son Malcolm, were truly excellent value for the festival, and worth the entrance fee, the pipes/harp/fiddle combination was lovely, quite entrancing.

And how could I forget (?) Mary Brettell, not only an 'old' friend but a fine tallented musician too, her new CD is excellent.  Travelling all the way from Brisbane Australia to support me & the festival, and doing more sets than I could count! Many are disapointed that she wont be here for 2008!

How about 10 year old Josh doing a turn in the Bar, and then knocking them dead in the Marquee?

Clogarythm? Bloody Great!

Hexham Morris & Lasses? The festival would have been colourless without them, and a lot less fun.

Addisson Rapper & Clog?  Well, everyone who met them said they were great, and even those who had no previous experience of dancing, came to watch them as word spread!

I missed so much, as I was running around organising, just a bit too much, although I think I got to see everyone perform at some point!  Jez Lowe topped the bill, getting  a great reception wherever he played, and he was also a great sport, wowing them with his set in the Bar, and an lovely, intimate set in the Cellar Bar, (see photos site, link at end of this blurb!). Quite a few of you have pointed out that I had Jez on a bit too late in the Marquee, and to all of you I sincerely appologise- lesson learned!

Finally I would like to say that I was more than happy with the acts that we went with for this 'first' festival at Clennell Hall, and would gladly have them all back again;  I dare say that over the next few years, we probably will!  So many wonderful moments of music & fun.  My head is still spinning.  Thanks to all who played, sang, danced & attended, Thank You ALL Very, Very Much