"Chester is my favourite. It has an excellent mix of big names, new names and local singers, booked as guests; top dance teams; interesting special events (lectures, folk plays etc.); places to go sing and play; a top craft fair; local pubs serving good beer; quality food stalls; and above all the team who run it are very approachable and friendly. It really has it all."

Chester is indeed a good festival, for all the reason Wayne has said. That is is less than 10 miles up the road from my house is a big bonus too! My only regret is that this year I couldn't persuade them to book the whole Phil Beer Band, just Phil on his own.

I liked Shrewsbury when it was at Bridgnorth. I will probably give it another go in its new home this year. They too normally have a bill that caters for a wide range of tastes.