Drapers of Norwich,

Sidmouth Festival WILL be different this year, but not in regard to the friendly atmosphere. As one of the regular contributers to the session scene around the town, I promise you that you will enjoy the week as much as ever in the past. If you have any doubts, put them aside and come to Sidmouth.

The bickering, and negative comment, you have been exposed to over the last few months has, with a few exceptions, been the work of people who wanted to punish the Sidmouth traders by depriving them of the income from the festival (a singularly counterproductive plan of action). They will not be likely to advertise their presence, if in fact any of them come.

The rest of us, who want to preserve the festival, will be there to ensure that you all receive the warmest of welcomes, the best of live folk music, and a host of pleasant memories to take home afterwards.

Drop in to the Bedford Hotel sessions, and look for a big, ugly folkie with WYSIWYG printed across the scratch plate of his guitar, and I will welcome you personally.

I do so hope you will come.

Kindest regards
Don T