I have been pointed to mudcat by a friend from work, on looking at this thread may I make a comment, it appears to me that there are two clear cut camps here, those that think Broadstairs is a great festival, and needs nothing improving, and those that think Broadstairs needs a bit of help, between the two is a line that seems to be crossed one way then the other, I read positive comments about what happened last year on the campsite and in the pubs, and yes i was there on the top campsite with my son, when we returned we saw damage to tents, damage to two caravans, and one car had its windscreen cracked, we went to the other campsite where a brick had been thrown through a tent, various items had been stolen or damaged.
These things in my opinion were the responsibility of the organisers who provided inadequate security.
However it appears that the main cause of disquiet was the bands in the public houses etc, I personally was disapointed at the quality of music available going from pub to pub, until I found the Wrotham Arms one night, it was packed to bursting, but the music was great.
I went to the area near the Dolphin public house to be met with a wall of people that seemed intent on wrecking the town, again in my humble opinion, once through them we came upon another public house the name eludes me at present, where there were many musicians jamming away quite happily, and a very pleasant night was spent there with the likes of Mr Pip Ives and his partner Jo, as well as many more .
I have been to Broadstairs for a few years now, but sadly it does appear to be losing the edge somewhat, that is in comparison to Whitby, Sidmouth etc, will I be going this year ? possibly not having looked at the website, Whitby , yes, Sidmouth yes, I nether defend nor attack the organisers they have a very hard job to do, but it does appear that the festival is being organised for their own pleasure rather than for the entertainment of us the paying public, thats all i have to say on the matter and hope that the festival goes well . I do know how hard it is to organise such events, but it is for everyone to try and help make it a good week.