I suspect the figure quoted is reasonably easily arrived at and is based on those produced in the AFO report to be found at:
www.afouk.org

This is an independent report produced for the AFO by independent consultants and incidentally quoting the manager of Fields of Sidmouth. It was funded by the Arts Council of England and details the way in which spending at Folk Festivals is calculated. The money goes around more than once of course so any figures need to use a "multiplier effect" too.

I too have heard rumours of what shops and bars take during the week. I asked the landlord of one well-used pub if it was true he took 25% of his annual take during the Festival. He told me it was more like 33%! A festival I know rather well had one main supermarket whose takings during the festival week were second to the week of Christmas. (They made no contribution to the Festival BTW!!).

It may be that the people and shopkeepers of Sidmouth prefer to have less high profile events believing that other tourists will make up the shortfall in income. I doubt it very much. They and their local businesses may not even want the income. Their call and a shame for us festival goers.

As I understand the position that there is no need to put up extra cash - just to ensure that the shortfall is guaranteed in case of bad weather.

Not an unreasonable position I would have thought by Mrs. Casey's Music.

Dave
www.collectorsfolk.co.uk