I'm not a Middle Bar Singer. I went to Sidmouth for the first time this year. It was a great festival because the town is so totally soaked in music and dance. It is completely different from any other festival I've been to in that there is SO MUCH participative activity and the line between artists and punters is more blurred than anywhere else I've been. I was standing in the Bedford and someone was murmuring in my ear about the act that was on...I turned around and it was Martin Carthy. I was sitting in the Old Ship, and a few people wandered in and started a session - one of them was Eliza Carthy. Folk is all about that kind of communal inclusiveness - the music belongs to all of us.

Such a great, easygoing vibe everywhere, interesting concerts but SO much to do elsewhere, so many chances to get stuck in or listen to fascinating talks and lectures, and a completely unique atmosphere. And loads of people said how much easier it was to get into things round the town, with fewer crowds and queues this year and last.

So i think to judge the event as it is now, you really need to go and experience it firsthand. It really ISN'T just like every other festival. I've been to a few, and I think Sidmouth is unique.