I think there's a bit of confusion still here about what is meant by a 'fringe' event.

Most people's concept of a fringe is 'low key events, which have sprung up spontaneously around the main festival'. I suppose, by definition, these are usually singarounds or sessions - or mixed ad hoc performances by members of the public / festivalgoers plus the odd performer who is passing by, possibly. My thoughts would be that these wouldn't normally be MCd - but might end up being 'run' by someone, who looks to make sure anyone who wants to becomes involed.

As has been mentioned above, the 'fringe' at Middlwich isn't really the same beast - from what I can glean, it is only a 'fringe' in that the events are free of charge and not full formal concerts - they are, however, semi-formal. It is organised by the same people who put the 'main' festival together and consists of particular performers (some, if not all, being paid) being on at a certain venue for a certain duration - not like a singaround or session. Part of the afternoon / evening may involve ad hoc performances from the floor, or these may continue once the programmed acts have finished.

I visited Middlewich for the first time on Sunday, primarily to pick up some boxes of promo material from a mate of mine, who was performing there. Because of the nature of my visit, I didn't have a festival ticket, but was more than pleasantly surprised at what was available without one. Having the likes of Tom Lewis and Tim Laycock along with many others, as 'fringe' performers, seemed a bit of a mis-nomer, but it was very enjoyable and, after all, what's in a name? I suppose, in discussions such as this, definitions can be confusing.   

I will certainly seriously consider making a weekend of Middlewich next year - if I can figure out how to make it viable for my young, enthusiastic border collie - who likes lots of exercise and doesn't really like crowds very much (sensitive, nervy creature that he is!)