I have been in contact with the new owner of the Pickering Showground, Mr.H.
He phoned me personally, and has supplied me with the following, which seems to clarify a lot of the rumour and gossip surrounding this whole sorry affair.

Mr.H. Bought the showground, and it's associated websites last year.
He employs two of the former events office staff, to man his new company.
Simon Boak has no connection with the new company.
He has no responsibility for Mr.Boak's debts, past, present or future!
He is offering complimentary tickets (for 2008 ticketholders) for the 2009 festival purely as an act of goodwill.

Looks like the trail ends firmly at Mr. Boak's door!