Yes, it's become a town festival rather than a folk festival- ain't it always the way? Doubtless it'd be possible to go for pop-up sessions, but don't expect to be listened to! Twas different when it was a smaller affair, and the Friday night folk club was a kingpin- now everywhere has the usual bands you can see every week.. and tha clearly is what the publicans want. You can't blame them for wanting to cash in, it's a tough trade. Having run official sessions over the years, I prefer now to mooch. By the way, Flora, Pip is about as local as you can get these days! He's washed off the Sussex dust for some Kentish malt... very sensible!