There isn't much I can add to this discussion, but for what it's worth here's my two penn'orth.

In the last decade and a half, I've attended six Sidmouth Folk Weeks. On every programme, there were many events I probably wouldn't have enjoyed. But that didn't trouble me in the least, as there were so many that I did want to attend. The biggest problem was always choosing between two (or more)equally desirable things happening at the same time.

As if that weren't enough, Sidmouth also provided many unexpected bonuses … informal sessions and sing-arounds that were pure magic … workshops I was drawn into by casual curiosity and walked out of with helpful ideas … chance encounters with acquaintances I hadn't seen for years … and much more besides.

So, barring accidents, I'll be back this summer for another week. And it goes without saying that I'm grateful to the good people who put in so much hard work to make it all happen. But although it goes without saying, I'll say it anyway.

Thank You Very Much!

However, that doesn't mean that the festival is so perfect that it's beyond criticism. Admittedly, some of the feedback on this thread has been peevish and small-minded, and I sympathise with members of the Sidmouth team who feel tempted to say "if you don't like our festival, try organising your own". But some critics do have a valid point – particularly on the issue of noise levels.

Whether any band is aesthetically "good" or "bad" is a subjective matter. But whether or not a band is loud enough to damage the hearing of the audience (and of the musicians) is an objective question. To answer it there are measuring instruments, and health and safety guidelines.

Saying "if you're not a professional sound engineer, you don't have a right to complain" is not an adequate answer. Excessive noise may not be as lethal as passive smoking, but it can still do us serious harm - ask Pete Townsend. So, I would suggest that the festival team keep this matter under review. Meanwhile, I would advise the principal antagonists to calm down a bit, and maybe have a (quiet) pint or two.

Wassail!