I love the way the local business people have rallied around to give help to the Festival once there was a threat it may not continue.

It was always the busiest and most lucrative weekend for the town. The Co-op took as much money over he Festival weekend as it did over any three days before Christmas. With the honourable exception of the Nook - most businesses could not have cared less when previous directors have suggested they support the festival. I am told it was hard to get them to even take an advert in the programme. One pub owner in the past discouraged pubs from contributing to the festival on the grounds that "poeple would turn up anyway".

However generally speaking the people tend to be friendly. But like most people in tourist towns - they can be a bit funny when it comes to tourists!!

I note that "Holme Valley Business Association and 42 local business have pledged their support". Wouldn't it be lovely to read "The Holme Valley Business Association who have finally after 27 years realised the value of the festival to the town have pledged each of their members will give £100.00 towards the running costs of the festival".

As I have said, The Nook is an honourable exception to this and I am glad Sheila is in the forefront of attempts to keep the festival going.