Well it's St Swithin's day and it hasn't rained yet here today (Edinburgh 9.45.p.m.) so let's hope it hasn't in Sidmouth, and that'll be a good omen for the future.
I am married to a Sidmouthian who is not really that bothered about the Festival, but doesn't mind if I go. I would be very upset if there were no more festival. I still feel a week's season ticket is amazing value for money (=approx 3 or 4 premier football matches, 6-8 hours worth as opposed to the whole week!)and wish more festivals would adopt the practice of having an all-events pass. I also attend alot of "fringe"/free events. Having just been to a festival elsewhere where the local traders did put in a lot of sponsorship, I think this should be actively sought out from those who currently benefit from their increased trade during the festival week (some of whom do contribute, but not enough of them)
TB