I agree broadly with the sentiments of "live and let live" but if one set of people (Mrs Casey) obey all the rules and take the risks and another set of people (hair braiders etc) do not then you can see the unfairness, despite that the money they take is pretty trivial (??). AggieD makes a good point - there is indeed local concern over just how many 'hangers on' might be attracted this year, including professional pickpockets who are always a problem. Young local drunks littering the esplanade give folkies a bad name every year.

Be assured that musicians, dancers etc who come for the love of it and maybe collect a few pence (or quite a few pounds for charity as do some young children) are unlikely experience problems. Many people in Sidmouth want more amateur and local groups (back to the 'good olde days') and less of the expensive international acts. However, they miss the point that (as far as I know) Sidmouth is fairly unique in having such a range of international groups attending.

There will be no repeat of the loud amplified music that used to be played from the Marlborough Hotel (now renamed Dukes and under management of a local Sidmouth family who run the hotel next door) and the Pan Pipes may be thought too loud. If anyone tried to move on a folkie with a guitar or a young girl with a recorder they might get lynched.

My main point was to 'warn' the pavement traders that it might not be a good investment to come this year! Next year, who knows!