......just got back from the overspill campsite, situated on the main floodplain of the Blitheshire Union Canal.

An excellent idea on the part of the festival organisers to have the campers fashion their own rafts on which to pitch their tents.

As the canal adjoins the river, it was possible to punt yourself,using the handy pole-hire concession, to both sides of the river, thus being able to take full advantage of all the exotic amenities on offer.

Highlights of the festival for the Mr Happy & Fiends World Tour were:

* the very formally directed singaround in Ye Olde Multiplex Cinema Middle Bar, in which Harry & Vicky Gloom nominated all their chums to perform & excluded all newcomers.

This approach completely eliminated any of the competitiveness & smartarse showing off that many travelling folkies are tempted to exhibit, particularly displays of musical & singing competance- both of which were totally absent.


* the allcomers drunken brawl in the disabled ladies portaloo, led by that fine singer & smartarse musician; Darren O'Barbahblacksheep.

'I'll fight any wummun in the house!'


* the Write & Perform your very own Dirge workshop led by Lofty McBrain, part time taxidermist & undertaker; & spoon player extaordinaire!


* the Drink a Metre of Ale + Wet Tee shirt & Trousers competition.

We'll certainly be attending this super do next time- Yippee!