Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 16 Jul 09 - 02:35 PM

Oh dear, that's the weekend of Swanage festival, so I guess we won't see Roly at Swanage this year.... and we're committed to Swanage so won't be able to get to Whitchurch.

All best wishes for a great reunion.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: The Sandman
Date: 16 Jul 09 - 10:15 AM

next thing is, you will be starting the festival again.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 16 Jul 09 - 07:15 AM

Pity theres no ceilidh - OTB were all primed to play (free) but I understand that there are problems in sorting out a suitable venue having regard to the finances available. Perhaps next year - could we revive the tradition of the Whitchurch Big Band - anyone who was at the Sunday afternoon gigs in the Parish hall should remember this. Non other than John Kirkpatrick once said to me that it was "So loud in there that I think I am playing by Braille" Ah such memories

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion 2
From: GUEST,Sue & Martin
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 05:31 AM

Hi all,

Due to the great success of last year's Whitchurch Folk Festival Re-union, we are holding another free Re-union 2 on September 12 & maybe even the Sunday lunchtime if we can get some camping available. We would love to see you all, old friends & new. We will keep you all posted as soon as the programme is finalised. If anyone wants to email me direct, it's [e-mail]

Kind regards.

Sue

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 12 Dec 08 - 05:46 AM

Still getting the odd call from people who couldn't make it and asking about next year- some seem to think that because I was festival Director at one time then I should know whats happening. I'm happy to pass on what info I have or get and really hope to see another reunion next year.
A very happy & holy Christmas and best wishes for the New yeear
Pete & maggie

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Rob
Date: 11 Dec 08 - 06:18 AM

Rumour has it that the reunion might be repeated. Most people I have been in contact with enjoyed the day. It was good to meet many old friends and even to steward again! More feedback would be useful.
Regards Rob (former head of stewards)

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 14 Nov 08 - 07:04 AM

Had a couple of calls asking if I know wether the event will be repeated next year. Sue, I suggest you start thinking about it. If you need any help just ask.
Pete

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: BB
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 02:37 PM

Just let us know about the next one in plenty of time, Sue, as we couldn't make this one. And give our love and best wishes to Martin - hope he feels better soon.

Barbara & Tom

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Phil Neale
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 01:36 PM

I would like to echo the positive sentiments of previous contributors...
a memorable day with a great atmosphere, well organised and well supported.
May there be more like it in future.

Phil.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Sue Rampton
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 04:40 AM

Thank you all! All our performers & session leaders who did all the work for us, you were great! If you want Re-union 2, I'm sure it can be done! Unfortunately, Martin wasn't too good & had another'turn' on Sunday. He spent the night in hospital but is now back home & resting, so hopefully is on the mend....

It was great to see all the old friends as well as the new - a wonderful day.

Thank you all,

Sue & Martin

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Steve Donnelly
Date: 10 Nov 08 - 06:09 PM

Hi all,

I had a great day on Saturday. Great tunes, fabulous atmosphere and good company. Congrats to all those who organised the event. Check out my Youtube site for pics of the many musicians who contributed so well to the day. Keep those Old Songs Alive. Steve Donnelly    http://uk.youtube.com/user/stevenmdonnelly

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 10 Nov 08 - 11:39 AM

A really great day. The Wyvern Band were especially good. It was good to meet up with old friends, some I hadn't seen since the last WFF (1993). Thanks to Sue & Martin for thinking up the idea.
Perhaps it could be the start of something big?? Hope so.
Anyone want to buy a banjo - I've still got plenty.
Sean - thanks for your input - you can tell as many banjo jokes as you like - I've probably heard them or adapted them to fit melodeon players

Thanks again
Pete (& Maggie)

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: skipy
Date: 09 Nov 08 - 10:38 AM

Glad to read that it went well, couldn't make it in the end! New suite that was due del. on Friday, then changed to Sat. before noon finally arrived at 6 o'clock!
Still there is always next year.
Skipy

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Sean Mc
Date: 09 Nov 08 - 07:58 AM

Well, I had a damn good time. Didn't really get to see anyone afterwards as we were packing up after the ceilidh. But I think I can say the day was a great success. Well done to ALL the organisers......see you next year?

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: skipy
Date: 07 Nov 08 - 05:41 PM

I will be there, hope the pub has a quality smoking shed, I will not be in the pub with the "non smokers" but I will be there.
Skipy

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Sean Mc
Date: 07 Nov 08 - 08:14 AM

Pete, come and say hello at the Lamb session. If not, later at the ceilidh. For my sins, I'm the guitarist with Wyvern Dance Band. (By the way, I am also Tenor Banjo player so I'm allowed (or is that aloud) to do banjo jokes). Cheers Sean

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 07 Nov 08 - 06:14 AM

My banjo is always in tune - its all the others who are not

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,SeanMc
Date: 07 Nov 08 - 04:17 AM

Pete, if you really have managed to get a banjo in tune then you truly are nobility !!!

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 02:20 PM

Hi
I'm coming and really looking forward to seeing all my old friends that make it. The official festival nuisance (Emma) is really annoyed with me cos I'm not bringing her but I had enough of that in the very early days of the festival and am now Grandmother to a replacement nuisance. She really looks like her mother did as a child too.

Thanks for all the kind messages from the people who remembered me I was really suprised. I thought I blended well into the background.

Hey Ho and only 4 days to wait.

Love

Brenda

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 01:59 PM

Does that mean that the renowned 4-minute-miler Todger Bannister will be there?

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Saro
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 12:14 PM

I trust that the Whitchurch typo fairy will be in evidence once again. I have fond memories of a programme from years back which mentioned those lovely but rarely seen instruments the mandokin and the bonzonki, as well as ace performer Hector Gilchnit!   Alas, I fear that spel chekers have spoylt the funn noww.
Saro

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 07:26 AM

I've managed to get the banjo back in tune and charged up the battery for my nobility scooter, so all should be well with the world this Saturday. Looking forward to seeing lots of old (and a few new) friends.
Pete
PS That should read Mobility Scooter (A Freudian Slip???)

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Rob
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 05:03 AM

The local lonngsword team Test Longsword will not be performing at the reunion, though a few representatives will be there. However it is hoped that a team from Overton school will appear. The traditions march on+

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 28 Oct 08 - 08:44 AM

If any mudcatters have memories of Whitchurch (good or bad) please consider posting them here as I may try & make some sort of compilation.. I have already noted some of those who have already contributed. I have one rather vivid memory of Cyril Tawney at Whitchurch and having to push him onto a train (destination unknown) on the monday morning. Some may recall having to "dump" a well known Morris side in a field by themselves so they could play their one chanter bagpipe without disrupting the camp site and half of Hampshire.
Keep posting
Pete

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Carol
Date: 27 Oct 08 - 11:28 AM

Chris and I used to really enjoy Whitchurch and would love to get to the reunion but having moved 'up north' it's a bit too far for one day - hope the festival returns. Have a great day.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 27 Oct 08 - 07:02 AM

Great news - Basingclog will be doing a dance spot at the ceilidh. They have a long connection with the Whitchurch Festival, and in many ways owe their origins to the Festival. They were always first on the list of dance teams, although some say it was because they were local and didn't have to travel far. However, they are a great and colourful team and well worth seeing

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 22 Oct 08 - 10:59 AM

'aty'?   'si'?   Obviously my keyboard is not listening to what my fingers are singing. Burl

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 22 Oct 08 - 10:55 AM

I have happy memories of singing aty this festival. It was always enjoyable.I would be at the reunion like a shot if the date was not already spoken for. Here's hoping it si a great success and maybe the forerunner of more. Brenda, hello, I hope you are well. Best wishes, ROY

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Rob
Date: 21 Oct 08 - 01:10 PM

I understand that Overton mummers will be at the reunion

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 19 Sep 08 - 04:03 PM

Sue - thanks for the link, and for clarifying that it's for new as well as old friends of the festival.

Roly pressed a leaflet into Derek's hand at Wherwell last night, and suggested we might like to come and have a sing, so we've put it in both our diaries, and hope to be there!

Kitty

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Sue Rampton
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 10:00 AM

Hi all,

Forgot to say, you can find full details on the address below:-

http://thewhitchurchweb.org/wffrd08.pdf

Regards

Sue

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Sue Rampton
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 08:26 AM

Hi all,

Great you're all so keen to support the Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion. However, please bear in mind that it's not a full fledged festival, it's a free get-together for old & new friends, singarounds, musicians' session etc., run by local clubs with a ceilidh in the evening & hopefully some guest performers. All are kindly giving their time and services for free. That said, we think it will be a great day! Brenda, if you read this, Martin & I would love you to get in touch. You (or anyone else) can contact me on 01256 896477. Hope to see you all again soon.

Sue & Martin

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 06:20 AM

Hello,

I know I went to Whitchurch at the behest of Rip on at least one occasion. I can remember singing in a park and sleeping in his white van in a pub car park! Could it have been with the Shadow Puppets?

Best wishes,

Peter

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 06:15 AM

Hi Brian - haven't sung that for years - may revive it now youv've reminded me.
Maggie sends her best wishes
Pete

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,MartinW
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 05:44 AM

Don't know if previous message got thro. Basically further info available on the the whitchurchwebsite.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Brian Peters
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 07:25 AM

I don't think I can make it, but have a good time. I've happy memories of the festival (although it was also the occasion of a band bust-up) and of the folk club at the Red House. Hope you're well, Pete - do you still sing 'Plastic Jesus'?

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 06:58 AM

The number of enquiries continues to grow - keep 'm comming as the more the merrier. Sue & Martin do you know what you started

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 11:47 AM

Look forward to seeing you again Pete - lots of enquiries so it looks like its gonna be a gudun

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: bodhranman
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 01:29 PM

Hi Folks,

I'll do my utmost to be there - it looks like it fits my Southampton / Ireland schedule.

Peter Hirons

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 01:23 PM

The Red House was also the founding base for Basingclog until some stupid pratt(aka Pete Martin) bought the place and tried to turn it into a Bistro. All he managed was to turn everyone away including the Folk Club and the Festival. Do't know what its like nowadays but may take a look.
The Harvest Home is on Winchester Road not far from the Silk Mill also well worth a visit and a place which also played a part in the festival I well remember Len Berry singing Poverty Knock accompanied by the sound of the water wheel and the spinning machines. Brillliant.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Rob
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 04:57 AM

Brenda the Red House is not the pub you remember these days, which is sad as it was the origional home of the folk club, the festival and Test longsword. Iwell remeber your festival curry in the kiichen of the hall opposite!

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: The Sandman
Date: 07 Sep 08 - 04:50 PM

hello Brenda,hope you are in good fettle.Dick Miles

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: GUEST,Brenda (ex Rippingale)
Date: 07 Sep 08 - 04:22 PM

Well I remember it well of course being in on the organisation of the very first Whitchurch festival. If I can possibly work out a way of getting down there I will but I no longer have a car. By the way where is the Harvest Home, What happened to the Red House?

Any way even if I don't manage to make it I will be with you there in spirit.

Brenda.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: The Sandman
Date: 07 Sep 08 - 01:34 PM

anne lennox martin,I remember dancing with her.
how about Bonnie Shaljean?she must have been there.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Saro
Date: 07 Sep 08 - 12:39 PM

Sorry i won't be there (West Country Carolling that weekend with Folk South west) but have very fond memories of singing at my most local festival with Bread and Roses. However Mr. Jordan will be there to represent the family as it were...
Saro

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 07 Sep 08 - 10:49 AM

Still trying to get in touch with anyone who went to or performed at Whitchurch over its 15 year history. Please pass the message on as judging by the response so far its going to be almost a mini festival in itself

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: banjoman
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 07:08 AM

There is now a provisional menu for the day which is very much subject to change -depends on who can make it:


Saturday 8th November

12 - 4pm Harvest Home pub Lamb Folk Club (singaround)

4 - 6 pm Harvest Home      Musicians session

6 - 8pm   Harvest Home      The Railway Session (Keith Bell)

Its hope that there will be a spot from Basingclog (NW Morris) during the afternoon


4 - 6pm   Whitchurch SPorts & Social Club
          The White Lion Folk Club (Rowley Martin)

8 -11.30pm   Ceilidh - The Wyvern Dance Band
                         Hector Gilchrist
                         Basinclog

I will update the programme as necessary.
This promises to be a great day and a chance to meet old friends or new ones.
Hope to see you there

Pete

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: The Sandman
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 04:23 PM

Burl,was also there a few times.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: The Sandman
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 04:10 PM

It was a black cat,and Cosmotheka made much of its appearances on stage.

Subject: RE: Whitchurch Folk Festival Reunion
From: Anne Lister
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 04:03 PM

I have great memories of the festival, too ...back a few years, though!
Sorry I can't make the reunion.

Anne (Lister)