Sorry Sandman- I meant POST war re the Woodcraft folk- there were folk camps before the war, though, it isn't a new idea but may be relevant again soon.
Re media coverage of folk music- anyone who has a pc, internet radio or smartphone can now listen to any station anywhere!
It may be that the Irish scene you mention has benefited from good media coverage in the past, but I can listen to your Irish stations anytime I like so maybe there's no difference now?

Also I think you seriously underestimate the number of song/music gatherings in England these days- Sussex & Gloucestershire spring to mind among others