Just to add my comments to those of Captain Birdseye and BB - the weekend was really enjoyable, especially the Leeds Arms on the Saturday night and the ballad session in the Cadets Hall on Sunday morning. Matt Armour also presented a very enjoyable concert of his songs in the Cadets Hall. Seafest has suffered over the years from a few pubs which were unworkable on the saturday night (trial and error in the first couple of years), but that has now largely been eliminated as a problem. The Anchorage, the Cadets Hall and both Leeds (Arms and Hotel) are all smashing venues, and Steve and I also had a good spot in the Lancaster. And every time I was near the pier and the main stage it seemed packed with people enjoying the entertainment.

Congratulations to Jim on winning the song contest. I was unable to see the competition as I was singing in other venues while it was being held, but his contribution to Saturday night in the Leeds Arms (and at other times) was very much appreciated.

As has been said already. If you are thinking of booking for next year's festival, do so. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Sorry, Stallion - I can't comment on Richard's booking except to say that there was a very full and varied guest list and I guess there can't be room for everyone. He has always seemed very open to local artists to my mind - Anna Shannon, making her festival debut, is from Scarborough I think, and Dogwatch, the Young 'Uns, the Endeavour Shantymen and Steve & I are all from Teesside. But bringing Stormalong John, Les Pirates (Brittany) and Armstrongs Patent (Holland), to name but a very few, to the festival creates an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to hear a good variety of performers.

Anyway, roll on next year's Seafest!

Helen.