I've been attending the John Clare Festival every year since the early 80s. For me it's an event that I wouldn't want to miss.

In the past it's had a bit of an 'Eng. Lit. Crit.' feel about it (which is OK as Clare was/is an important literary figure). But in the last couple of years it seems to have broadened out a bit to embrace more aspects of Clare's life and interests.

Last year the Society's new Patron, Richard Mabey (perhaps our finest living natural history writer - go out and buy and read all of his books immediately!) talked about Clare's interest in wild flowers. This year the focus is to be on Clare and Folk Music - see Pete Shaw's post above.

Since the members of the Society have managed to acquire Clare's cottage (and have exciting plans for it), and a local group called 'The Langdyke Trust' have managed, among other things, to set up at least one nature reserve near the village, Helpstone looks set to be an important centre for anyone interested in English rural life - its history, lore (including Folk Song) and wildlife.