Local Press comment so far has been very positive about the new size and format of the week.

But do people who like the new format just because they didn't much care for Steve Heap (for whatever reason) realise just what Sidmouth has lost? It was not just the biggest festival of its kind in Europe (?) but personally I doubt if 2006 will be as big as 2005 - so many people said 'hang the expense' in 2005 just to support the organisers. I'll summarise all the local feedback shortly. It was the parade and torch ceremony on the last night that really brought home just how much had not been there during the week.

And will so many bands and callers come for nothing or for reduced fees next year, again just to support the organisers?