Bromyard Festival - who's going?

Subject: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 01 Sep 08 - 07:39 PM

Tell you why I ask - apart, of course from looking forward to seeing you there - I'm taking my daughter, but am going on to the south coast and she needs to get back to the North-West.

Any offers? Gotta be worth a pint or two, not to mention a meal at Chez Nous!

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 02 Sep 08 - 06:51 AM

I will be there - I try not to miss it as it is my favourite festival. But sadly I can't assist with transport for your daughter.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 02 Sep 08 - 05:58 PM

Mine too - I'm looking forward to lots of dancing and singing.

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 02 Sep 08 - 06:15 PM

I don't think in favourites, but there are one or two below the line or beyond the pail. Bromyard is one I would not miss. When I lived in Malvern it was a local one for me.
The thing for me is that it is still the town that makes it - the pubs the atmosphere.
And they know what makes a ceilidh work. One festival has made the same arrogant mistake three years running. A seemingly little thing that is no little thing to a dancer. The organiser has to be a dancer to know. And has to sample their own product. It is not all about names, you dun gotta be in there doing it. And knowing who is advising at Bromyard - they got it there.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 02 Sep 08 - 06:42 PM

Show of hands is going.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 03:15 AM

Me also, MC'ing, singing and drinking lots of Wye Valley Ale

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JP2
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 03:41 AM

I've just checked the weather forecast and it's looking pretty good,temperatures in the range 16 to 18 c,no rain and very light breezes.
I'd better pack some shorts!
Will there be a gathering of Mudcatters?
JP2.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Snuffy
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 04:03 AM

I don't think there's a Mudgather on the programme, but you can usually find a few of us in the Hop Pole on the Friday evening.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 04:39 AM

I hear the Hop Pole has had a makeover and the new people are really trying to make a go of it. It had become a bit tired in latter years but it's improved beyond recognition so I'm told.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mo the caller
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 06:27 AM

Mr Red, you may be right about the Ceilidhs.
We always go to Bromyard but it annoys me every time that the thing that 'makes' the Saturday for us is ignored by the organisers.
Sheila organises a Day of Dance for the people who enjoy Playford and American, yet it gets barely a mention in the advance publicity, even when they advertise in festival programmes at Chippenham and Whitby, which attract crowds of dancers filling the Playford and American dances.
We enjoy the Sunday as a chance to hear people we've not heard before, sing some shanties etc., but without the day of dance we wouldn't travel.

Our journey back to midCheshire will be delayed, we plan to ramble and wander up the A49 sometime on Monday, detouring to Audlem for the session at the Shroppie Fly, and arriving home around midnight, so we can't help either. What are the trains like?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 07:15 AM

There will be a stall selling previously-cherished books on folk music from Saturday morning only.

I am happy to welcome visiting 'catters - please come and say "Hello" - no purchase necessary!

Dave - plugging "Collectors Folk".

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JP2
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 07:20 AM

Shameless Dave!Shameless!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 09:49 AM

The Rose and Lion is the place to be for a damn good session.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 10:00 AM

And a damn good pint of the aforementioned Wye Valley beer.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: DG&D Dave
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 10:08 AM

Glad to hear that the Hop Pole's improved, it's been a bit poorly in the recent past. Hope it's still got a dartboard though.
Having said that, I'm grateful for having been forced into the Red Lion and discovering Wye Valley "Butty Bach".
Looking forward to it.
"Pull for the shore, sailor..."

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JP2
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 11:00 AM

Where's the Red Lion in Bromyard Dave?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: treewind
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 11:03 AM

Hello Dave - we'll look out for you!

Anahata

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 11:40 AM

At last - our paths will actually cross. Great!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,merrylocks
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 01:15 PM

Bromyard is one of my favourite festivals but is always bitterly cold at night and I mean BITTERLY - but near tropical during the day. Schantieman I will be going back to the north west but not till Monday morning - any use?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 05:34 PM

Sadly not, Merrylocks, as she has to be back at school on Monday morning. Thanks anyway.

Can be chilly at night, but as long as you have a decent sleeping bag, mat, camp bed, woolly socks & hat, triple-insulated tent, central heating and someone to snuggle up to it's OK.   Was bloody freezing (literally) last year.

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,merrylocks
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 07:08 PM

schantieman,
sorry i cant help, but why not offer a moor & coast breakfast instead, maybe more takers. Will be there the maiden of bacon serving breakfasts.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 07:16 PM

Got a HEAVY pencil for a Gig in Crewe - MIGHT get in for a look at MidDay on the way up !

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JohnB
Date: 03 Sep 08 - 11:50 PM

We won't be there this year, bloody typical that Dave brings his books. Hope you had a good time with the Giants in Quebec Dave.
Hope to be back next year.
JohnB.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 04:27 AM

Sorry - must stop pressing the wrong buttons!

Mo the Caller - the BFF website info about the programme says the following:

"Workshops for dedicated dancers will be held all day, with a 'Dancers Dance' being held in the Leisure Centre in the evening."

And these are listed in the programme as it appears on the website.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 07:43 AM

Happy to offer a Moor & Coast brekky in barter for a lift, but I suspect that's not the problem!

Not sure I understand the last bit of your post, Merrylocks ....?

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 07:57 AM

Frost? Frost?

Long gone are the stories about tent zips freezing so hard the zip wouldn't open.
I can remember thick ice inside my car in the morning.

That was before the date moved from 3rd Fri (which can be quite late) to 2nd w/e.

And before global warming; which if you looked at a graph of temp v days it would show a shallow fall, and a small change in temp moves the frost point a long way. We are talking averages but the first year I saw Bromyard dust lit by the sunshine I knew global warming was telling us something incontrovertable.

But I now have 4 sleeping bags (double inside double) & a caravan - am I becoming a wimp in my dotage?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 08:00 AM

Wmip? Don't talk to me about wimp - we are booked into a B and B in Leominster. Getting nesh in my old age.

And seriously thinking about a motorhome for the future.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 09:05 AM

Well, Cresby, there was frost on my tent by the time I went to bed at about 2 on Saturday morning last year!   Think I might do the double sleeping bag this year!

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 01:30 PM

Go to bed with a good book - or a friend who's read one.

That should warm you up.

Now why did I have to post more than once to get this to stick?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JennyO
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 02:12 PM

Oh great! Looks like we'll get to meet some UK Catters at Bromyard! I'm visiting the UK from Oz (see my thread here BS: JennyO visiting the UK in September) and meeting up for the first time with my friend Rob, who is coming from the USA to meet me and visit his rels and hopefully catch up with some old friends, and the first thing we are doing is going to Bromyard!

I'm all for a meeting of Mudcatters somewhere! Judging by the comments about the cold nights, I'm glad we chose to stay at a B&B in the area! Glad I packed some warm clothes too!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,guest
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 06:43 PM

what about the lift for his daughter?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JennyO
Date: 04 Sep 08 - 08:30 PM

Unfortunately we can't offer a lift because we will be in a rather small rental car full of suitcases and instruments, and we're not leaving till Monday either.

By the way, Rob's Mudcat name is quantock. He'll probably post on here later on.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: DG&D Dave
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 04:23 AM

Sorry JP2, for "Red Lion" read "Rose and Lion".
"Ah! Yes I remember it well..."

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JennyO
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 08:51 AM

Refresh - any other Mudcatters we can meet? And can anybody help out Schantieman's daughter?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Brian Peters
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 09:59 AM

Where in the North West does she need to get to? I will be travelling up to Glossop via M6, M56 and M60, so Cheshire and South Manchester are en route. I'll be leaving after my last concert - I'm offstage at 4.45 and won't want to hang around too long.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 10:05 AM

JennyO

I will be the one wearing..............

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: John J
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 10:49 AM

Yellow?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Chaz Brewer
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 02:22 PM

Does anyone know of any cheap campsites near to Bromyard? I can't afford the extortionate season ticket price for the official festival site and anyway I only want to frequent the fringe.

Chaz

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Chaz Brewer
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 02:31 PM

Folkiedave ... that's 15 miles away!!

Chaz

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 03:32 PM

I am hoping to come to an arrangement with my management....Shhhh!

Dave

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 07:06 PM

John J
It can be arranged.

As for campsites in the area - not sure, but there has always been a festival w/e fringe campsite just down the road past the Holly Tree (or whatever they are calling it now). Never tried it and it does slope a bit, but I would guess it has the room for another wee tent- especially if you arrive early Fri. check this list they may be helpful

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mo the caller
Date: 06 Sep 08 - 07:07 AM

Guest Connie said
'Mo the Caller - the BFF website info about the programme says the following:

"Workshops for dedicated dancers will be held all day, with a 'Dancers Dance' being held in the Leisure Centre in the evening."

And these are listed in the programme as it appears on the website. '

I found no mention of the day of dance till I'd clicked about 4 times. There was a brief mention on the Info page,under tickets. The bands and callers for these events may not be 'big names' like Show of hands, but they are the names that draw me and other dancers, and I can't find them till the programme is up on the site.
I go because I trust Sheila to book someone good.

But my point was that this is not ADVERTISED in a way that someone who didn't know about it would see. It's hard enough for someone who kn ows it's on to find it.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,neovo
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 03:21 AM

refresh!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 06:29 AM

Does anyone know the current state of the site. Has it been affected by the flooding around some of that area ?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Dave Hunt
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 08:10 AM

Mudcatters - I'll be there -calling the Fri night ceilidh with the wonderful Steamchicken, and working with the kids on Sat and Sun. Drop by and say hello!
I have been to EVERY Bromyard Festival, and been a booked guest there for the last 32 years!(only one person been booked more than me - Jim Magean)
Dave - (aka Dr.Sunshine)

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: muppitz
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 08:22 AM

I'll be at my usual station, dusk 'til late in t'food tent serving all you's drunkards when you've had your Wye Valley fix! ;-)
Hopefully I'll manage to see some of the festival too, not looking forward to anyone in particular, anyone I'd be clamouring to see, I've seen enough times this year anyway, but it's a good festival none the less!

muppitz
x

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,BFF Committee
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 09:14 AM

MC Fat and everybody else wondering -

I have a message for you from the BFF Directors who are on site as I write this, overseeing the site build up. They have asked me to let you all know that the marquees are going up, ("The Shed" is going up this afternoon when the marquee chaps have finished their lunch) the ceilidh floor will be installed tomorrow, a metal roadway is going in to assist vehicle access. There was a bit of water in the bottom field but this has drained nicely and is drying out in the sunshine. So, direct from the Delahay Meadow site - (despite some rumours you may have heard!)it's business as usual at the football club in Bromyard.

If I have any more news I'll let you know - see you there.
The Committee

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 03:35 PM

Southport, in Lancashire, Brian - not too close to Glossop I fear.

AND I've just looked at the website and seen the prices.   Severe second thoughts!!!

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Chaz
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 03:56 PM

This little festival used to be so warm and welcoming. The cost of the season ticket was unextortionate. Unfortunately it has gone the way of the other 'big' festivals, squeezing money out of the camper. I fear it will price itself out of the market and more and more of us will find smaller more friendly places to go. I see there's a thread about cheap campsites in the area you may have noticed.

CB

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 08 Sep 08 - 04:22 PM

Squeezing money out of the camper?

£8.00 for a weekend's camping?

£2.70 per night?

How much would you think would be reasonable then?

And what are the cheap ones charging?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 03:12 AM

Spoke to Diock Dixon last night and he said the site is OK

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 03:12 AM

That should have been Dick not Diock

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,BFF Committee
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 03:31 AM

Hi MC Fat et al

So my message above didn't reassure you enough eh? Direct from the site I can once again reassure you that all progressing well this morning - metal roadway has arrived and up in town the Rose and Lion people are preparing the dancing area for the Morris.

It's all coming together nicely.
The Committee

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: DG&D Dave
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 03:47 AM

Can hardly wait.
This has never been one of the cheapest festivals. But, it has always been one of the best.
I first attended in 1982 when the weather was somewhat worse than that predicted this year and we survived unscathed.
I wouldn't miss it for the world.
"Rain came tumbling from the sky and drowned all dreams upon the ground..."

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 04:29 AM

An iron road eh !! What ever will be next horseless carriages .... machines that fly.....women morris dancers.......

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Neovo
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 04:42 AM

Well I don't know what people expect for the cost of a weekend ticket. Show of Hands were on at our local arts centre and the cost of a ticket was £16. Bromyard early bird weekend tickets were only £57 which by my calculations is only 3 and a half concerts at that rate. A festival weekend ticket is much better value - and you get what you pay for really. There are cheaper festivals but can they afford the big names? - horses for courses.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mo the caller
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 05:42 AM

I suppose whether you think it's expensive depends on how much of your time you want to spend listening to big names and how much participating in singing, playing, dancing or whatever your 'thing' is.
Whitby and Chippenham seem cheap compared to Bromyard, but we enjoy all 3.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 05:46 AM

I don't want the big names.   I go to sing (esp. in the Bromyard Schantieman competition), dance and meet people. In my humble opinion, folk isn't about stars, especially paying £16 to go to a concert! Or £57 for several.

On the other hand, I agree that I have been dilatory and haven't got a ticket, so it'll be £83, plus £37 for my daughter if I can get her home....


Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Blackjoak
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 09:52 AM

We have been going for 20 years or so now and wouldn't miss it and think it is great value against some of the larger Towersey's and Shrewsbury's. For the range of acts against the early booking price I think it beats the festivals mentioned by others; and no, I am not a committee member!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Blackjoak
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 09:58 AM

we have been going now for over 20 years and wouldn't miss it. We think that the early booking ticket prices are better than the Towersey's and Shrewsbury's, and compare favourably with the other festivals mentioned; and no, I am not a committee member.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Acorn4
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 02:13 PM

Have made last minute decision to buy wekend tickets abd are ttaking caravan - looking fwd to it.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Charlie B
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 08:20 PM

This festival is way too expensive. It has gone the way of Shrewsbury, Warwick, Towersey.
All loud rock type young artists churned out of music colleges, ticky tacky just the same.

There is no way I am going to pay those kind of prices to just hang around at the sessions and enjoy the kind of festival that Bromyard always used to be.

Have fun, see you in the Rose and Lion guys.


CB

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: JohnB
Date: 09 Sep 08 - 08:51 PM

Add on to the cost of a weekend ticket airfare from Canada and then see how you like it. I really do like it but as we were in UK in July the bank won't stretch that far again this year, maybe see you next.
JohnB.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Neovo
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 03:15 AM

That's absolutely fine Charlie B and Chaz. You've decided how to spend your money, other people have decided to spend theirs in a different way. Don't winge about it! I personally wouldn't pay vast wads of cash to watch opera but I'm not making a fuss about it!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Sandra
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 03:34 AM

If some of the posters on here are going to compare festivals perhaps it would be a good idea to compare three day events.

Towersey is a five day festival and Shrewsbury is a four day festival.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 04:34 AM

Chaz and Charlie both of whom have complained about the price are perfectly entitled to spend their money how they wish.

However it would be nice if some of the complaints were based on fact - Chaz's complaint was that camping was too expensive at less than £2.70 per night.

Unfortunately it has gone the way of the other 'big' festivals, squeezing money out of the camper. he said.

Charlie B says the festival has All loud rock type young artists churned out of music colleges, ticky tacky just the same.

"All?" There are some older artists there that I know personally would love to be described as young; there are some younger artists there that I suspect may even enjoy the epithet "rock-tpe".

But scanning my own eye down the list of artists Chas B. and ignoring the word "all", who exactly were you thinking of?

Was it Brian Peters with his heavy metal version of "Three Ravens?"

Surely not?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Sandra
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 04:47 AM

The financial climate the country is experiencing is having an impact on all of us including events. If you are finding the cost of a ticket difficult to meet there is an alternative. Why not try stewarding - it is a great way to become involved. And stewards only need to work between approximately 10 to 16 hours depending how many days the festival is held over.

Shrewsbury asks stewards to work for 12 hours over the four days. Stewards also get free camping and a free souvenir programme. I think that's a very acceptable alternative and a blooming good deal!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Brian Peters
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 05:15 AM

> Was it Brian Peters with his heavy metal version of "Three Ravens?" <

Dave, are you trying to suggest I'm *not* young??

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 05:41 AM

As if................................

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,merrylocks
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 07:00 AM

Schantieman, take it you still havent secured a lift for the daughter yet. If you stop by the M & C food tent, where i will be serving breakfast from 8am, I will keep a look out for anybody who might be able to help. There is usually a few from round Southport area.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 10 Sep 08 - 07:47 PM

Chaz,
If all you require is somewhere to pitch up, with a couple of portaloos and water available the milkman's field is the place for you. Cemetery lane, as someone said already at the side of The Holly Tree ( formerly O'Malleys and a lovely man he was too).

You just turn up and pay somewhere in the region of £10 to £15 for the weekend. That's where I will be this weekend because I do like singing round a campfire.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 03:53 AM

We shouldn't complain if people want to enjoy festival fringe events for nothing, why pay when you can enjoy the festival benefits free of charge.



And if you don't want to see these jumped up stars of the current folk scene, why should you buy a ticket, especially when you can demonstrate your own gigantic talent down at the local pub.



And you have a perfect right to complain about ticket prices, even if you have no intention of buying one.



In fact you don't even need a festival ----or do you???

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 04:11 AM

Chaz,
If all you require is somewhere to pitch up, with a couple of portaloos and water available the milkman's field is the place for you. Cemetery lane, as someone said already at the side of The Holly Tree ( formerly O'Malleys and a lovely man he was too).

You just turn up and pay somewhere in the region of £10 to £15 for the weekend.

But the cost of the weekend camping at the site is a less Chaz - the one you complained was extortionate.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: John J
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 05:12 AM

We can't make it now - family probs.

2 full season tickets available for a lot less than cost.

PM if interested, I can post by Special Delivery today to arrive tomorrow. Need to know by 4pm (UK).

John

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Neovo
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 06:04 AM

Good point unnamed guest. If there wasn't a festival funded by those who choose to spend their hard-earned money buying a ticket, would there be a fringe where people who choose not to spend their hard-earned money can play/sing and enjoy themselves?

Which came first, the chicken or the chicken or the goose that lays the golden egg?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 06:17 AM

I can see this from both sides. I go to Beverley FF and Whitby Folk week and only attend the fringe. I think I've only been to a handfull of official things in the 10 years I have been attending Whitby so i suppose I am 'pimping' my ride there in not contributing financially. However as an organiser of Sheffield FF we as organisers try to find ways of making our succesfull fringe pay at bit to help host the festival. There are ways of doing this taking a collection or bucket, paying for camping only passes, raffles, encouraging people to buy at least a programme, getting pub venues to place an advert in the printed programme etc. All of these help with the overall costs of hosting a festival. I always encourage the fringe as it is an important part but the reality is that Festivals cost money to put on and that in the main the fringe contributes to the overall atmosphere but doesn't contribute much in fiscal terms. It is a balancing act and if you ask most Festival organisers they will say what 'golden egg' ?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Cllr
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 08:48 AM

Champagne Carol and i will be at this brilliant festival and i will be, as usual, going to a mixture of fringe and non fringe events and having a really good time. Cllr

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,BFF Committee
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 10:40 AM

Well, whether you've bought tickets for events on site or will be joining in the sessions etc in the town, the BFF Committee hope everybody has a great time, safe journeys to and from Bromyard and many happy memories to keep you going until the next festival.

See you all there.

The Committee

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: John J
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 12:22 PM

Doesn't ANYBODY want v cheap Bromyard season tickets?!

John

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: squeezebox-kc
Date: 11 Sep 08 - 12:47 PM

will be there with Bradshaw Mummers say hi to the druid or the huntsman dependent on what day it is
ken

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 03:00 AM

And the weather forecast (8.00 am Friday) is not too bad for Saturday and great for Sunday.....

See you all Saturday.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 04:21 AM

Thanks, Merrylocks, but I need a more definite arrangement than that. I've phoned round the usual people who go from this area and they're either not going this year or have a full car.   Sadly, Jenny won't be able to go this year.

I'd certainly be interested in one of those tickets, John, and | know someone who might want the other, but doing the deal might be tricky with only a few hours to go.   Do you, by any chance, live somewhere between Liverpool and Bromyard?

Just had a look at the synoptic chart and it looks like high pressure, light winds and no rain, at least till Sunday afternoon. Bout time we had a summer. Warm days; how cold it is at night depends on how thick a blanket of cloud we have to keep the heat in.

Leaving in 2 hours, or as soon as I'm ready!

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 04:34 AM

By the way, it seems from the programme that there are only twoshanty sessions (and Bromyard Schantieman contest), both on Saturday. Am I missing something here?

S

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Chaz
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 04:46 AM

yes john i would like you ticket but it's friday already how can i get one from you?

cb

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 07:01 AM

Slight hitch.

I can't find my effing tent!

There will now be a short delay while I tear out my hair. Looks like I'm kipping in the car.

See you all soon.

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: John J
Date: 12 Sep 08 - 04:03 PM

Sorry Chaz, they've gone!

John

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Cllr
Date: 13 Sep 08 - 07:13 AM

the sun is out and its beautiful. I am on my way to the shanty session :-)

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 13 Sep 08 - 03:26 PM

Glad they are gettuing the good weather ! If I hadnt been paid to be in Gillingham , I would have probably wandered up my self !

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 01:45 PM

I'm now away from the mud and showered!

A good weekend, but I didn't do much that needed a ticket.   Hope everyone enjoyed it!!

Steve

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 05:12 PM

Glad they are gettuing the good weather !

[Hollow laugh]

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 05:18 PM

Ah - well - the weather DURING the festival was fine!   warm, sunny, light winds, as forecast.   The rain beforehand was the prob!

S

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 05:49 PM

I have just got back - 10.00 pm Sunday - and I didn't get to a huge amount and certainly not as much as I would have liked.

I would like to pass on my personal thanks to all who coped so well.

I travelled down early Saturday AM so the state of the site - well, let's say "muddy" - was a real surprise and frankly not conducive to a bookseller getting to his pitch. And off again to the (softee I know) hotel he and his wife had booked - and back again and off again.

Each of the four times I was stuck - help was at hand within and instant. I would like to say thanks to everyone who helped.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 05:51 PM

And I would like to add thanks to the organisers of the festival - who did as good a job in an emergency as anyone could and always with a smile on their face.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Acorn4
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 10:00 AM

Bromyard brough new meaning to the word MUDCAT!

Eat your heart out, Glastonbury!

Home now. Big thanks and congrats to all the organisers for getting it all sorted and stewards whose contribution was well above and beyond the call of duty!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Acorn4
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 10:19 AM

... oh, and an excellent Festival as well. Planty of interactive stuff in the pubs. Thought Faustus, Spiers and Boden and Cherish the Ladies on top form.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Silas
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 10:49 AM

Great work by the stewards and organisers. Well done all of you. Would have probably paid extra if I knew that there was going to be tractor rides as well!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: squeezebox-kc
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 12:53 PM

just got back Monday 5PM i would second all the praise for the stewards and tractor drivers.
Park bench social club stick to the day job
Shropshire Bedlams and Mafia consider some manners when turning up not on the programmed tour and hogging the set at the Bay horse even if you were very good

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Silas
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 01:44 PM

Just noticed the comments about ticket prices. I think they are bloody good value. The Saturday evening concert alone was worth the ticket charge. One thing I did find slightly disappointing was the catering. Great food, really great food, No Bones Jones was almost good enough to turn me veggie, but the portion size for the money was not good. I don't consider myself to be a greedy person, but for seven quid I would expect a bloody good plateful of whatever it is.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Muffin
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 03:52 PM

More praise for the organisers and stewards who made it possible for the superb concerts and wonderful dances to happen despite horrendous muddy conditions.
The efforts many made were truly herculean and massively appreciated.
Thanks to all concerned.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Schantieman
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 04:21 PM

100!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 15 Sep 08 - 05:34 PM

Call me a stick in the mud...........

Bromyard would not be Bromyard anywhere else.
Oh I can remember in the old field mud, mud and more mud and a pretty difficult exit but this year was a record - IMHO.

So who is the first to write the Tractor-pulling shanty?

But all credit to the organisation and the stewarding for getting us out. I had special plastic mats for the job and they did get one lass out of a hole but there was no way I was going to use them on my car and van. Shame I forgot to take the handbrake off while I was being dragged out, but then it was a first.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Silas
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 09:49 AM

I remember the old site with many fond memories, but I have never seen mud like that at the Old Site - mind you, they never used to allow caravans on in the earlier days. Used to get a bit soft at the entrance as I recall, but by far the worst thing about the old site was the bogs.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Happy
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 10:00 AM

'.............but by far the worst thing about the old site was the bogs. '

........& the open sewers!

Guy I knew fell in one & got hepatitis!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mrs Scarecrow
Date: 16 Sep 08 - 02:42 PM

I had a really wonderful weekend and so did Mr Scarecrow, Great singing great concerts and great humour and helpfulness from organisers and stewards in very difficult circumstances

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST
Date: 17 Sep 08 - 10:50 AM

Refresh

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mr Red
Date: 17 Sep 08 - 03:38 PM

I firmly am of the opinion that weather and such is not the big dampener. It was a challenge and we rose to it. It is the organisers that set the tone. Dave Jones set the precedent for the friendliness and his ethos lives on. The warmth trickles down and I don't see it changing, at Bromyard that is. I do see some festivals changing and not for the betterment of Folk.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,TOM_from_PBSC_as_well_as_Glorystrokes
Date: 17 Sep 08 - 04:56 PM

Jeez.

FYI Squeezboxkc, THIS IS OUR DAY JOB.

Hope everyone else enjoyed the show. I hope the 70 people who bought CDs liked them.

See those of you who enjoy our music soon.

Tom x

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Folky dokey
Date: 17 Sep 08 - 05:05 PM

SqueezeboxKC, I'm glad you had a good time at Bromyard, and sorry to hear about bedlams budging in!
Definite thank yous to the stewards and tractors.
I too had a lovely Bromyard and thought the the finale fling on sunday was a GREAT concert!
I'm a bit confused as to why you think Park Bench Social Club should stick to there day job....My group of friends thought they were fantastic, a breath of fresh air!

While you were getting your car towed out on monday perhaps you could have asked them to tow your musical taste out as well, I fear they might still be stuck in the mud.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: steve_harris
Date: 21 Sep 08 - 04:40 PM

but by far the worst thing about the old site was the bogs

I remember the, err, friendly programme in the old days that stated "The festival closes at 5pm sharp and the toilets will be locked at 5.30"

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Silas
Date: 21 Sep 08 - 04:43 PM

Yep. REmember the poor bloke who died in one - they didn't find him for three days and were wondering who the last tent belonged to.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,John from S&B as well as Bellowhead
Date: 21 Sep 08 - 07:03 PM

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,John from S&B as well as Bellowhead
Date: 21 Sep 08 - 07:17 PM

I told you Tom - don't rise to the bait! People often like to put their personal musical tastes down on boards like this as if it's the gospel truth without realizing that we're just folkies like them and reading up on the gossip as well.

Just whistle and pretend you're not there ... and then chip in when something sensible is being talked about. Honest - you'll go mad if you try and join in. Your set was great!

Brilliant Bromyard again by the way! - Absolutely massive hats off to the guys with the tractors getting everyone off as if it happened every day. It made a big difference to the way people thought about the festival I can tell.

Cheers

Squeezy

PS - No thanks to the backwards folks running the "Crown & Sceptic Tank" that we stayed in after our gig. I've never been thrown out of a hotel for asking for a key to the front door so I don't have to go to bed with a midnight curfew before. That's the stone age, guys - no wonder people don't stop by your town when the festival isn't on?

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Silas
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 01:46 AM

I've had some really bad experiences in Bromard Hotels. Always used to stay at the Falcon when Ollie ran it, it was great in those days.Since he left it has been rubbish, (don't know about th epresent owners though) and don't even let me start on about the Bay Horse!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: treewind
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 03:46 AM

Falcon is great. We weren't staying there, but visited for a session, lunch and a late night drink. The food is good and you get a full time Fawlty Towers - style entertainment for no extra charge, by the landlord and landlady!

We stayed at the B&B at no. 18 a few doors up from the Falcon. No late night problems there: here's a front door key, come back any time you like...

Anahata

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Graham Bradshaw
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 04:04 AM

Well, I'm glad to say I had a rather GOOD experience this year. After years of staying in the Hop Pole (Somewhat basic although always friendly), this year I stayed in the Bay Horse. Brilliant.

Because I had been on site all day on Friday with no time to go up and book in, Simon the landlord kindly walked down to the site on FRiday night about midnight to give me my key!! I finally made it in about 2.00 am. Saturday was nearer 4.00 am, but that's Bromyard. You can't finish the gig at 11.30 and then be in your hotel by midnight. There is serious partying to be done.

Top marks to Bay Horse - great room, excellent breakfast, great company.
Also good to see my old mate from Earlsdon Morris - Ted Kent - who was also staying there.

Brad

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Silas
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 04:09 AM

Bay Horse has probably changed hands then.

There was a south african geezer running it when we stayed there. We booked a family room (2 aduls and 2 children) we got a double room with both wardrobes taken out and an extra matress on the foor! No, not only cramped and uncomfortable, but no-where to put our clothes.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MCFat
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 04:38 AM

Tom from PBSC, I remembered that a mate of mine Paul Elliot did a TV talent show with his wife Glen as The Great Bonzo & Doris one of the judges was Gary Bushell of the Sun. He hated them said 'they were dragging comedy backwards' and 'not to give up their day job'. Both quotes appeared on their publicity with the addition of 'as this is our day job we took it as a compliment'

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mo the caller
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 05:25 AM

We stayed at an excellent B&B on a farm just outside Bromyard.
But I always ask about keys now after staying at Castleton (Peak district) for a Set Dance weekend and being told "this is our home, we don't let people we don't know have keys" fortunately there was another couple staying who had stayed the year before, so we had to walk back with them. Castleton seemed particularly unwelcoming, the one we stayed in the year before was festooned with notices listing do's and dont's and how many nights you had to stay to qualify for a bath towel.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Bel J
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 05:35 AM

Hi Tom from PBSC
Fantastic performance at Bromyard, it was good to see you with PBSC - the previous time I saw the band there was just 3 - and brilliant they were too. But enjoyed seeing your performance as well.

You've got the world's most brilliant guitarist in your band I think, and then there are the vocals too.

I bought the CD, had already bought one after seeing them before and had a previous one given to me but bought one after the show to give to someone else so they, too, can discover your great band.

Looking forward to seeing PBSC in Barton. My only criticism of you, you've increased my carbon emissions, all this driving around.

Bel J
x

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,JennyO
Date: 30 Sep 08 - 08:49 AM

Just refreshing this quickly. I'm on someone else's computer right now.

Rob and I really enjoyed ourselves at Bromyard. We stayed at the same B&B as Mo the Caller. It's a lovely place called Linton Brook Farm. We've already tentatively booked for next year. We plan to be back in the UK for good next year. Yes, internet romances do work!!!!

I think the highlight for us was the session in the Hop Pole on Friday night, where we met a lot of Mudcatters. Unfortunately Rob didn't think to get out his digital recorder to record it. If anyone else did, we'd be very interested to have a copy. We do have some good photos though!

We loved seeing Mary and Anahata on Saturday morning, and there were more sessions in the Hop Pole and the Falcon. We stayed away from the festival site most of the time. That mud was incredible! Really glad we didn't try to camp!

We will try our best to get to Bromyard next year. It was great!

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Rich A
Date: 30 Sep 08 - 09:45 AM

Squeezebox is Ken from the Bradshaw Mummers. He has a habit of moaning. I suggest everyone buys him a pint whenever they see him, he sounds like he needs cheering up.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 07 Sep 09 - 03:36 PM

Major Event - Bromyard Sessions In Concert

Venue: The Falcon Mews, Falcon Hotel, Bromyard
Date: Thursday 10th September
Doors Open: 8.00pm
Music: 8.30pm to 11.30pm
Admission: FREE
Artists Performing (no particular order):

    * Foxtail Soup
    * Sally Stamford
    * Ramshackle Bluegrass Band
    * Typsy Jazz
    * Brian Jones & the 10 O'Clock Shadows
    * Devil's Diamond
    * Greg Swinford Quartet
    * Pete & Stevie Geoghan
    * Dead Money Duo
    *

      + surprises

This is the opening event of this year's Bromyard Folk Festival and is open to all, whether or not you have a Festival ticket. The performers are all from Bromyard or nearby and can befound regularly at the Acoustic Sessions in and around the town.

The music is pretty wide ranging. Foxtail Soup perform tradional and modern folk music. Typsy Jazz, who are performing a the festival "proper" play amazing Gypsy Jazz, Dead Money Duo offer traditional tunes, Greg's Quartet soft jazz, Brian's band good time rockabilly and Devil's Diamond are my new band focusing on my own material for a change!

It is advisable to get there before 8.30 for a seat as we expect it to be pretty busy.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: John J
Date: 08 Sep 09 - 09:16 AM

Regret I can't get to Bromyard until Friday.

JJ

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Mike and Ann
Date: 09 Sep 09 - 04:34 PM

We'll be there as always!

Bromyard Folk Festival is this weekend with some great ceilidhs.

Friday evening   Woodpeckers with Dave Hunt
Saturday afternoon Malthouse Passage with Chris Beaumont
Saturday evening Tickled Pink with Pete Rees
Sunday afternoon Ceilidhography

Saturday evening ceilidh only tickets are available £12 - some weekend tickets still available.

All is set fair for an excellent weekend in the Herefordshire countryside.
http://www.bromyardfolkfestival.org.uk/ for details
or tel [phone] (24 hrs)

Mike

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 04:15 AM

Well, I made the radical decision to leave my wellies at home. I have it on first hand authority from the site crew that the ground is dry, marquees are going up as you would expect and all will be in readiness for a smashing weekend of dance, song etc.

(I also left the potato salad I'd made for my lunch on the spare bed so that'll be interesting when I get home on Monday - and before you ask, it was in a container so won't be spreading too far over the counterpane!)

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: sleepyjon
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 04:39 AM

A window of opportunity unexpectedly opens - could be a chance to get a taster of Bromyard - are there any unticketed events - access to the main site? singarounds in the town etc?

I've heard lots about it but never been

SJ

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 05:32 AM

sleepyjon

You can buy a site only ticket for £3.00 which allows you on site, into the beer tent and outdoor stage events and traders and I think also the Craft Fair - you'll certainly get a feel for the Bromyard atmosphere. There will be Morris dancing in the town and usually some sessions. The back bar in the Rose and Lion is popular.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Mr Red
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 05:45 AM

There is an unofficial campsite past the festival site and pub.
Ceilidh only tickets for Saturday night are £12. And all those pubs in town, and probably the pub (whatever they are calling it these days) near the site. Tasters applenty.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Samuel Walter
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 05:53 AM

I shall be there, hopefully entering the fredy jordan singing competition, whats it like? look out for me :
myspace.com/samuelharrupwalter

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,Connie
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 06:32 AM

Last I heard the pub near the festival site - The Holly Bush/Tree or somethign similar - was well and truly closed. But, as Mr Red says, plenty more in town.

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: GUEST,MC Fat (at work)
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 06:39 AM

Catch skyhook they are double fantastic

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: sleepyjon
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 12:18 PM

Thanks, GUEST Connie - that's just what I needed to know.

SJ

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: Mrs Scarecrow
Date: 10 Sep 09 - 04:55 PM

looking forward to being there

Subject: RE: Bromyard Festival - who's going?
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 12 Sep 09 - 05:21 PM

As you'll probably know that wasn't me at the fest, it was The Citrus Grove.

Sal