Bignige ... I don't think I suggested that the Fringe was being ignored. Indeed, when we relaunched in 2005, the Fringe was an important part of the full Sidmouth experience (and continues so to be). At tha stage, the Fringe was included in the programme, and continues to be included. What I said was that the "official" festival ha no control over who plays (or not) in the pubs.

I think the evidence of the festival extends beyond the Ham and Blackmore ... the Bedford, the Manor, Carinas, Arts Centre, the church halls, Anchor Garden, Port Royal dancing....   

Truth is that the festival means different things to different people - for some the pub events, others the concerts, others the workshops .. the children's events, Shooting Roots, ceilidhs, country dace, contra, choirs, bands..... Celebrate and applaud that diversiy!