I was at the festival 2 years ago and had a great time. One very special pleasures was to hear Cyril Tawney - whom I had not heard in 20 years - sing again. I thought his voice and delivery were at a peak - far better than I remembered.

I also enjoyed tremendously meeting John Conolly for the first time. A fine, modest, very talented and generous man.

Stormalong John of Liverpool became favourites of mine at that festival. They practise but they maintain an exciting edge and a great love for the music.

I have known Lou KIllen for many years. It's always the greatest delight to hear him sing!

A real surprise was the Scots group, Harestane, with whom we had a totally wonderful and very late singing session on the (starting) Friday night.

Singers have good days and bad days, good months and bad weeks. What a great pleasure to be able to spend time with people like these! I hope Lancaster goes ahead! What a great festival!

All the best, Dan Milner