Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?

Subject: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:09 AM

I surely am. I had the Spooky Men's Chorale at my venue last night, and as they were leaving and calling out, "See you at Sidmouth!" I got a little flutter. Only a few weeks now! It's going to be a lovely one this year, methinks. I have a premonition that August is going to be glorious after all the horrid weather we've had - late summer and all that.

PS: it would be nice if this could stay a positive thread about the festival and what people are looking forward to seeing/doing, rasther than descending into a scrap and/or a sucking-of-gums about past history, as so many previous Sidmouth threads have done. I know I'm being excessively optimistic here, but what the hell.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:12 AM

I am.
G


(Mad Lizzie will be along in a minute, to gush!)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:14 AM

occupational hazard, I'm afraid...

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:17 AM

Anything you're particularly looking forward to, G? Apart from meeting me, of course!

:D

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:19 AM

No just the general ambience, the beer, and all the venues. The Newt The Bedford, The Anchor, The Volunteer. I could go on.
G.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:32 AM

A sunny Sidmouth, even without the folk festival is a wonderful thought. Its still absolutely pissing down here. I love all those places - Exmouth, Sidmouth, Lyme, Torquay.... I always think those little hotels on the front at at Sidmouth look like the sort of places that an Agatha Christie mystery should unfold, Murder on the Devon Riviera!

Last thursday, I bought a little campervan off e-bay. It was in Ross on Wye and I live near Nottingham, but it looked like a bargain. (Daihatsu, 2 years old, 8 thou on the clock - three and a half grand).

Anyway I've driven automatics for about ten years, so there I was huffing and puffing on the return journey - struggling with a very crotchetty four on the floor (went into reverse a couple of times by mistake!). Round about Droitwich there was a two hour hold up, just sat there dying for pee on the M5.

I'm not sure I can face the M5 again so soon - but it would be great! All the best to those who do make it down there.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: bubblyrat
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:36 AM

I am starting a new job tomorrow ( Monday 16th ) , so I am excited about what my new boss is going to say when I ask him for two weeks off almost immediately after I"ve started !! But he"s a lovely man from Perth, WA, ( No, NOT Rolf Harris ! ), and it should be OK. Then , as a great fan of Hoover The Dog, I am excited about seeing them performing with the Belgians -------and getting down to the Bedford every day, of course !!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:41 AM

I was just looking at that concert in the working programme, bubblyrat - looks really good!

I was also delighted to see that someone I used to sing with, and haven't seen in over 10 years, is playing one of the Anchor ceilidhs! Look forward to going to see him in a proper band. :)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: bubblyrat
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:46 AM

Weelittledrummer, ----Sidmouth HAS been used for a Christie murder drama. It was the Miss Marple episode about the girl from Australia or New Zealand who was born in the town, and witnessed a murder as a small child-------she goes there on honeymoon, and starts having "flashbacks" in a house she and her new RAF husband have rented. In the story, the town is called " Dilmouth ", but it is VERY recognisably Sidmouth !! I have seen the story a couple of times on TV, and it is quite a good "yarn", actually, starring, among others, that very good actor and comedian ( That Was The Week That Was , Randall & Hopkirk ) , Kenneth Cope.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:57 AM

that would be Sleeping Murder...?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:58 AM

I is looking forward to it.

Particularly wanting to see Liza and the Ratcatchers.

When I'm not stewarding in the Box Office I will be in the Middle Bar, Swan garden and maybe the Bedford.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:01 AM

I'm quietly excited at the thought .... looking forward to returning to the Volunteer, meeting up with friends that I haven't seen in over a year or mre in some cases, doing some singing .... having one or two ice creams... no real plans at the moment - apart from the Volunteer and one or two of the "Meet the's...."..... oh, and ecstatic about meeting Ruth, of course [grins] .... bringing the equipment and ingredients for the cinnamon vodka, maybe??

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: treewind
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:09 AM

I'm looking forward to meeting Ruth Archer too, except I won't know when I have, or even if we've met already...

Anahata

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: bubblyrat
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:25 AM

Dear Ruth, Actually, I have been getting excited about Sidmouth since I first went----- In 1965 !!! The same year, I think, that Pete Coe went there. Of course, it was very different in those days !!---Lots of Morris dancing along the Esplanade, lots of earnest young men wearing "Donovan " hats with EFDSS badges in them ( Yes, including me ! ).No "Ham", of course---it wasn"t built then, and one of the main " venues was The Forge, long gone but it used to be somewhere around where the swimming pool and car-park are now.The Black Horse seemed to be the main focus in those days, and was always HEAVING with performers and dancers ,spilling out into both roads, every night. And you could go there by TRAIN !! Yes, a real CHOO-CHOO !!And we used to have informal and drunken singarounds on the beach at Jacobs Ladder, complete with huge driftwood fire and exploding pebbles ! Need a"risk assessment " for anything like that today, I fear !! See you in Sidmouth , love, Roger ( Formerly of " Robin & Roger," Sidmouth, Yeovil ,Dorchester,Weymouth, Exmouth and Exeter folk clubs,(among others) , 1964-1966.. xxx

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:27 AM

Not me I hate the place

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:35 AM

That's fine Guest you just stay at home and do whatever it is you do enjoy.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:37 AM

I shall be 'Holding Out' in The Newt most of the time !

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:39 AM

Mixed feelings this year I'm afraid. Usually by now I'm getting really excited but I will only be able to be there from Thursday to Monday at the beginning and I can't really afford that. There's no Dove to go and sit and chat in! And the Middle Bar Singers wil be upstairs, not in the Middle Bar. Alright, I know it's a better room to sing in and it's the people who make the Middle Bar what it is, not the place, but I'm still a little sad at the change.

However I AM looking forward to seeing all my old (and I use the term advisedly) friends, all the more recent ones, and hopefully the new ones I'll make in the short time I will be there.

If any one wants to meet ME (getting jealous of all the attention Ruth Archer is getting *sulk) come to the Volunteer garden on Friday evening and join the Ashby de la Zouch folk club which I will be running.

I just hope it stops bloody raining!!!!

Love Lynne
ps Sorry Ruth, that wasn't incredibly positive. I AM looking forward to it.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST, Tom Bliss
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:40 AM

I'm just reading a huge stack of press cuttings that Graham has sent me as background for my songwriting course. So anyone who fancies trying a song about the Napoli, come along to the Chape St Hall at 9.30am mon to fri. Got 6 gigs too, including with Parky, Maggie B and Jonny and Vix - and I'm billeted in the Bedford, so no doubt the old mandolin will get a bash as well. Se you there. Tom

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: The Barden of England
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 08:31 AM

Not long now, and as always looking forward to a week of fun and music, with a few drops of 'Otter' too. I'll be in The Bedford as usual, along with 'The Swan' and some others. Hope to see you all there.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 08:32 AM

Why don't those Mudcatters who will be there on the Friday night, make a point of going to the Volunteer for a Mini Mudgather?
Giok

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 09:03 AM

I've volunteered to help drive the MBS bench as well as singarounds in the Faulkner Bar of the Royal York - but I still expect to be at the Volly for Lynne's Ashby de la Zouch club night on Friday (it's traditional!).

I am so looking forward to the Bedford not being smoky this year (espcially as I'm staying there)!

Kitty

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 09:05 AM

Thanks Giok...what a good idea!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 09:53 AM

Lynne: looking forward to meeting YOU, as it happens!

bubbly: those are the halcyon days that some of us will only ever know by reading "The First Week in August". Even though I'm pretty much a Sidmouth newcomer, hearing people's lovely memories of Sidmouths past makes you feel like you're part of that long continuum of folks who have attended over more than 50 years - it's quite a legacy.

Anahata: we haven't met, but I reviewed your most recent CD in EDS. So it will be nice to have a chance to say hi!

Surrey: I think the cinnamon vodka workshop would end up causing complete chaos in someone's kitchen. However, copious free samples of the finished product will be on offer - just look out for me carrying a very kitch 1950s-style thermos flask with flamingoes all over it...

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 10:04 AM

Pretty Flamingo

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 11:37 AM

Yes Lynne will be at Volly garden on the first Friday (Box Office stewarding notwithstanding)

Couldn't really be anywhere else could we?

Might that event include a "gathering" mini or otherwise.


Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 01:09 PM

Sad about the CV workshops ... but always willing to try the finished product - with or without flamingos!!

Damn - can't go to the Friday night thingy, as I'm not arriving until Saturday afternoon after all, thanks to a very kindly offered lift (I was clever enough to get cheap rail tickets to and from Whitby, but completely forgot that I might need to do the same for Sidmouth .... doh!! Hooray for being rescued from paying vast amounts of filthy lucre thanks to my mistake) .... never mind - maybe next year !

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mrs_Annie
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 03:04 PM

I can't believe it's only 3 weeks away.
Lookng forward to that first pint in the Bedford Saturday lunchtime.
Lots of great music - and hopefully some SUNSHINE!!!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,North South Annie
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 06:58 PM

Yes, I'll be there for the week. Hope to see you at Volly Lynne on Friday night. Also intend frequenting Kitty's sessions most am's and Rosies's most pm's and inbetween times in 'upstairs middle bar'. Mine's a pint!

Annie

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:01 PM

Ruth Archer - now we know who you are!
We owe you at least one drink after all the nice things you said about our CD. Please claim it at Sidmouth.
Mary

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:11 PM

You owe me nowt, Mary. I said what I said about the CD because it was what I thought. But will be lovely to meet up anyway!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:14 PM

I wouldn't normally be going but my in-laws have bought me tickets for Altan for my birthday. If you see a lonesome, ageing, balding, busking harmonica player playing Carolan's Concerto through a little Yamaha battery amp (YES! AMPLIFIED BUSKING!!) it'll be me. Doom Bar's my favourite beer and I rarely drink halves.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,martin ellison
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 07:54 PM

Well it turns out that we're on holiday very close to Sidders on that very week and I'll be visiting the town on at least one day to attend a celebration. Looking forward to it - I couldn't stay away in my formative years. No ticket but I may just squeeze into a session somewhere.
Martin

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: BanjoRay
Date: 15 Jul 07 - 08:07 PM

Well I'll be mostly in the Bedford right hand bar playing a lot of banjo and maybe a little fiddle all week, till friday morning, when I get off to the Foaotmad Summer Camp at Sacrewell Farm, Peterborough. Tough job, but somebody's got to do it.
Ray

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Ralphie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 02:02 AM

Hello Mr Ellison.
Will be there from Sat to Thurs.
When not being gainfully employed with my new Beat Combo, Housewives Choice, I will probably be mostly found in the Radway.

(Apart from Weds lunchtime, when we are the pit orchestra in the Volunteer, though how we are going to squeeze in the Sousa and the Tuba, has yet to be arranged!!)

Hopefully see you on what is laughingly called the beach at some point.
Regards Ralphie

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Morticia
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 03:49 AM

Will miss the mudgather sadly as we aren't coming down until the Saturday but will be hanging around the Anchor, The Swan, The Bedford and of course, the Doom,Gloom and Despondency session.Hope to see lots of you over the week...I mean lots of separate people, not lots of any particular bit of any one person...I mean... oh heck, see you there.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Brian Peters
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 06:36 AM

Ballad fans have every reason to get excited about Sidmouth. In response to public demand at a ballad workshop I gave last year, there will be a daily ballad session (Sunday - Friday) at 3pm in Jack's Bar, hosted by Sheila Miller and Moira Craig, with occasional help from me.

Then on Thursday morning in the Bedford I will be presenting a performance of ballads from Child's collection, which I can promise will include death by stabbing, drowning, hanging and burning, the odd amputation, harsh retribution, jealousy, surrogate parenthood and all the usual wailing and grieving. On a more positive note, though, there will be plenty of heroism, derring-do, true love and (I hope) a few laughs, as well as a surprising number of happy endings.

Be there.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MikeofNorthumbria
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 07:21 AM

Hi Folks!

Excited? - well, yes and no. I won't make it down to Glorious Devon this year, and will greatly miss seeing all the friends who'll be there enjoying the unique experience that is Sidmouth Folk Week. If any old acquaintances are asking why, the answer is that in mid-August Hexham Morris will be dancing for England at a folklore festival in The Azores. (Apparently it can rain there too - but the rain is generally a bit warmer.)

Have a great Sidmouth 2007 everybody - hope to see you there another year.

Wassail!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: trayton
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 07:26 AM

I will be there along with moira. I can almost feel the bar under my elbow at the Volunteer.
Ralphie, tut tut, transgressing the unwritten rule indeed
malc

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 08:16 AM

Where's Jack's bar?

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 08:18 AM

Jack drinks anywhere everywhere, and anything.
G.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Cats at Work
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 08:53 AM

Yes and no. Jon is coming down all week but I shall just pop down for a day or evening midweek. I can't miss the Lifeboat night in the Anchor. I can't get my head around not being in the middle bar after having been there for so many years! Yes I know all the arguments but it's still not the middle bar is it? The 'upstairs in a private room at the Anchor singers' doesn't have the same ring to it somehow. As for the rest of the festival looking down the guest list this time hasn't fired me with enthusiasm ~ don't know why. I quite fancy the ballad session though, so might drive over especially for that.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 09:16 AM

Yep, I'll be there - been counting the days for ages. My Morris lot don't go to Sidmouth, so I go on my own and tart for whoever will put up with me (mainly Herbascious Border!!). Will be doing some singing and drinking in all of the popular watering holes. Stewarding this year (for the first time - this will hopefully keep me fom spending SHED LOADS of money as I usually do - well, it might just shift the time frames that I spend it in!!)- in the Manor Pavillion.

So, safe trip down there, and looking forward to seeing many of you that I recognise by sight (and where I've seen you) but not necessarily by name!! So say hello to me please

Cheers

Kev

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 09:28 AM

Brian - "I can promise will include death by stabbing, drowning, hanging and burning, the odd amputation, harsh retribution, jealousy, surrogate parenthood and all the usual wailing and grieving."

All in the one ballad??? I SO want to learn that one,please - sounds just my sort of thing. (Who needs happy endings??) Glad to hear that the ballad sessions are definitely on the menu... that should fill in a few afternoon gaps for me!

As to that new Beat Combo, Ralphie, glad to note that Pierce isn't bringing the drum kit**,otherwise there'd be no room in the Volunteer for anybody else other than Housewives' Choice and possibly Malcolm at the bar [grins]

** or is he ???

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: DG&D Dave
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 09:44 AM

Gutted not to be there, for the first time in 28 years.
Work and, probably more importantly, the demise of the Dove are the cause of my abscence.

I am happy that I am leaving the Doom, Gloom and Despondency session in safe hands.

Fiona and I will definately be at Bromyard and will try to make Grove and Fylde this year (and the AMBS reunion and Chippenham next year). So, hopefully we'll see some of the Sidders crowd about.

Love to All.

Dave.
"Broken hearted I will wander, broken hearted I'll remain..."

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 09:49 AM

"Where's Jack's bar?"

Yes indeed.

Curious drinkers need to know.

Thought I knew all the watering holes in Sidmouth but I've never come across or fallen out of a Jack's Bar.

I do of course know the Jack that Giok refers to but he is far too indiscriminate to claim any single bar as his own.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: fiddler
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 09:57 AM

Well I'll be there too!

Yet again!

This year I intend to leave the ham - sometimes - and see some festival - it sounds good!

Andy

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: BanjoRay
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 09:58 AM

Of course, crowded sessions will be much easier to get into this year - you just wait for a musician to go outside for a smoke, then steal his seat! Can't wait...
Ray

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Brian Peters
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 10:07 AM

"death by stabbing, drowning, hanging and burning, the odd amputation, harsh retribution, jealousy, surrogate parenthood and all the usual wailing and grieving." .....All in the one ballad??? I SO want to learn that one,please.

You'd normally expect to get five or six of those per ballad as a matter of course, but I'm struggling to think of one including both amputations and surrogate parenthood. Then again a certain amount of creative tampering is generally considered acceptable when deaing with the Child oeuvre, so it's not impossible I might have contrived something by August 9th.

I don't know where Jack's Bar is either. They haven't sent me the venue map yet, only the schedule.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 10:19 AM

Nope. In 25 years I've never come across Jack's bar either and I thought I'd been in every drinking place in Sidmouth including some that are no longer there.

As for the famous Jack, he's probably been there. In fact maybe it wasn't called Jack's Bar until then?


Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Jess A
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 11:10 AM

me... will be dancing all week with Pecsaetan so haven't yet really thought about what else I'm going to go to, but I just checked a long range weather forecast (yeah yeah I know they don't always get it right) which looks quite promising so am keeping my fingers crossed for some decent weather...

http://www.theweatheroutlook.com/twoforecasts/fordiscussion.aspx?type=FD45UK

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Ralphie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 11:22 AM

Hu Irene.
Pierce Butler better damn well bring something, or we're docking his pay!!
Probably a cut down "Cocktail" kit, but he is threatening to bring his big 20 incher (China Cymbal)
As Mussolami Salami wants famously said, watch for the wax shooting out of the earski!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Ralphie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 11:53 AM

That should say
"Once famously said!"

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: My guru always said
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 12:54 PM

We'll be missing this year I'm afraid *sigh* Can't do everything I suppose......

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 12:55 PM

Aw Hils, will you be around home the week after?
G.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 01:01 PM

I have Googled for Jack's bar - it turns out to be in the Bedford. I am hoping to get there on the Sunday - every other day we are booked for other things, but if we are booked at the Bedford I could sneak out for a quick ballad-fix.
Mary

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: My guru always said
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 01:05 PM

Quite possibly Giok, unless we decide to go to Bideford during the week - our plans aren't quite set in stone. If you're passing this way & we're here this little paradise makes a great pitstop!!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 01:08 PM

That's what I was hoping to do, shall be based around west London for the week after Sidders.
G

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: alanww
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 01:56 PM

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
Well ...... errrrrrr, yes, I suppose that I'm errrrrr ....... sort of, ......, yes ...... beginning to get ....... excited.
Suppose I'll have to do a bit of singing, mmmmmmmm ....... a bit of playing, a bit of dancing, ....... yes, a bit of helping to organise some things, of course, ...... a bit of drinking and a bit of meeting old friends.
Yeh ...... I'm, well ....... quite ...... errrrrrrr ...... looking forward to it ......actually.
"Dancing and singing, bell ringing ...!"
Alan

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 02:11 PM

Ralphie .... "Hu Irene." ..???? What sort of salutation is that?
"As Mussolami Salami wants famously said" ... shucks, I thought that was the name of some Arabic character who was sought after ....
As to the China - help....remind me to bring some ear plugs and not sit too close.

Brian ... "it's not impossible I might have contrived something by August 9th." .. as at the moment I don't have any ballads featuring odd amputation (is it the part of the body that's odd, or just the means of amputation?), or surrogate parenthood in my repertoire, I shall be waiting for that one with avid interest [wicked grin]

Sorry both - in silly mood here, having just got back from watching Harry Potter ... I will be back to adult mode (if that's possible) before too long!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Ralphie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 02:54 PM

Sorry Irene.
Bad attack of sunshine coming through the window. First time for months.
Hence screen fade.
The reference to a Salami (for those that don't know)
They were the Fabulous Salami Brothers, well known street performers in the 70s/80s ish.
The reference to the wax spurting episode when some poor sap from the audience was suspended between two chairs with a paving slab placed on his (invariably male)genitalia, whereafter it would be smashed by the Russian strong man Mussalami with a sledge hammer.
Part of his pre strike patter was the wax bit...

Then Oneski Twoski Threeski ....enough already!
The other memorable act was Ritchie "Three Balls" Taylor juggling with 3 razor sharp tomahawks over another hapless punter whist blindfolded.
In the warm up routine, Taffy Thomas (master of ceremonies) would announce that Ritchie had never been known to.... CLANG.....drop one.

Thus installing complete confidence in said volunteer (victim)!

Ah, a much gentler time. What Larks!

Time for my medication

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: steve_harris
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 03:21 PM

Gloom! There's no ceilidh in the ford this year and another one in the Anchor isn't happening. See here

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: steve_harris
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 03:39 PM

About Lizzie, her Mudcat membership is "inactive" :-(

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Brian Peters
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 03:53 PM

"is it the part of the body that's odd, or just the means of amputation?)"

Amputating 'odd' body parts is starting to give me visions I'd rather not entertain. Not giving clues as to what body parts might get lopped off in my ballads but rest assured nothing dangly is involved. And the means is fairly conventional.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 04:26 PM

LOL!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 04:30 PM

"The reference to a Salami (for those that don't know)"

Hmm ... I did.. just to clarify, _my_ reference was actually to that well known Arab "Famously Said" (ie pronounced Sa-eed) ... memo to self... signal funnies clearly in future, and don't allow room for ambiguity.

Thanks for all the info though Ralphie!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: vectis
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 05:59 PM

For the first time ever I have booked myself into Sidders for the whole week. Really looking forward to it; but, of course, not intending to attend the celidh in the ford, that isn't happening, that I have never been able to stay long enough to miss before.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Jul 07 - 06:02 PM

Good, I'm glad I won't see you there then Mary, and don't look forward to it either.
Giok

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Morticia
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 03:56 AM

Dear lord, I had no idea they had named a bar after the flea ridden little miscreant. I am rather hoping he stays with Phot and Pixie this summer and I am not stuck pup sitting for the week.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,The Barden of England at work
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 05:01 AM

Bilmey Mary, the whole week at Sidders. It's going to be a mad rush on the Saturday to get to Broadstairs :-). I don't expect to be playing with the non existent band that won't be playing at the ceilidh in the ford that doesn't happen on friday 10th so I don't expect to see you there ;-)
John Barden

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 07:16 AM

Steve, what does membership inactive mean?

I'm really going to miss singing in the sea. And of course I shall miss not being able to go to the Ceilidh which isn't in the ford too...or either...or something

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 08:47 AM

Yeah, I'm looking forward to it too. We were in Sidmouth last weekend in June, when the biggest topic of conversation was the long-running saga of the Napoli, so there's probably several good songs in that, Tom!
Correct me if I'm wrong, but "Jack's Bar", maybe also an alternative to "Pyne's bar" (named after Jack Pyne)- the Bedford. (Could start another thread on alternative or colloquial names for bars).
Didn't buy a season ticket this year for the first time in several years, but have bought a number of day tickets and some Ham evening ones, which worked out cheaper and covers most of what I want to see/do. The day ticket for "everything staring before 5.30." seems particularly good value, if you, say want to do the Ham in the afternoon, a workshop and a "meet the ...." Eliza Carthy and Show of Hands at the Ham were already sold out by last weekend in June.
Most of all looking forward to meeting up with friends in the Anchor and Bedford...........and some decent cider!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 10:02 AM

Er, I might have been wrong about Jack's bar, but it's here!

http://www.bedfordhotelsidmouth.co.uk/jacks%20bar.htm

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 02:02 PM

Trish,

It looks like that might be the venue in question.

Looks a bit posh for the pup in the yellow t-shirt though so I doubt if he he'll put in an appearance there.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 02:49 PM

Shame! Must admit I couldn't place which room it was.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: vectis
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 02:49 PM

Sorry John I won't be doing all of Broadstairs this year They forgot to book TTF. I will probably pop in for a day or two on my way to Whitby though.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 02:51 PM

Sorry for double posting, but they just blew up the Napoli today, probably just as I was sending earlier post. Spooky (Mens Chorale) or what? More song material, hooray!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,The Barden of England sans cookie
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 03:09 PM

That's Broadstair's loss Mary. Look forward to seeing you at Sidders and please come into the Bedford and give us all a few rousing songs - it'll be lovely to see you. Have fun at Whitby: I've always gone for the weekend at Fylde as another full week is just too much for an old'un like me - and those hills a far too much. Fylde is like Whitby; but flat ;-)
John Barden

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mudcat Jack
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 05:22 PM

Ullo! It is I! Woss dis about der bein a bar named after me?!

I is hopin to get down to Sidders so dat I can have some beer, and a bit of a natter wiv me mates. I can tell you all how brave I wuz in Iraq! Chris never went anywheres without me, well he did once.......................but some naughty bugger wiv a AK47 tried usin im as target practice! So I wuz allways in his camera bag after dat!

I is hopin to paw a lift to Terri, and Idris'sssssssssssssss, place an go wiv dem, I might bring Joline too, bout time we ad a bit of time togevver!

Ope to see yer all soon!

WOOF, BEER!!! Jack

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 06:16 PM

Looking forward to seeing you all there, despite the changes (MBS, the Dove etc.)
Will be running my usual osteopathic clinics on the main Camp Site each morning. Ususal fees apply - free for Stewards and official Performers and a few pints of 6X to others.
Please, someone, tell me about this cinnamon vodka!
I will have a supply of sloe gin and cherry brandy (both home-made) this year so perhaps we could do a swap?

Colyn.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,flyingcat
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 06:27 PM

I've just found out that Jack's bar is in the bedford and is the new, posh venue in the basement (presumably where the disco used to be)should be great accustics. Sheila and i are running ballad sessions there and hope some of youcatters will contribute.
see you there,
Moira

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 06:41 PM

So yes, formerly Pyne's bar.....

Kitty

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: steve_harris
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 06:59 PM

<>

I suspect in means that Lizzie han't logged in for N months

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 07:37 PM

Not actually the case - she last posted on Mudcat four days ago.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Declan
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 08:28 PM

I'll be there also.

No definite plans, buit I exepct I'll be in and out of the Bedford, Swan and Anchor at various stages. Sorry to hear about the Dove, have had some good sessions ther in the last few years.

As far as I know Pyne's Bar in the Bedford (at least recently) is the one where John Barden et al have the non-stop session. The one downstairs had a different name. I don't remember what this was as I've never been in there so far. Maybe this year.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: The Barden of England
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 04:34 AM

Pynes bar was the one downstairs, which looks like it's become 'Jack's Bar'. Our non-stop session is usually in the bar to the left of the front entrance; the old time session to the right. Pleased to hear that something might be going on down there in Jack's Bar from this post:-

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,flyingcat - PM
Date: 17 Jul 07 - 06:27 PM

John Barden

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 05:52 AM

That's why I couldn't place it: never been below stairs before.
Hope to see you down there, Moira, check the link I gave above to see how it looks: (last saw you + M + R in Penicuik)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mr Yellow
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 07:46 AM

Me, Miss Yellow and it better not rain.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Lady Policeman
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 10:37 AM

Whoops! They blew the Napoli up yesterday but didn't use enough explosive so I've just wandered down the sunny seafront to see them blow it up again. Loads of people there and even a Police riot van (you know what these holidaymakers can be like.) Big plume of grey smoke then a few seconds later a loud explosion. Seagulls scatterd everywhere and did their bit on the people below!!
Jack's Bar is definitely the bar downstairs at The Bedford and used to be known as The Mermaid to locals.It was done up about six months ago and renamed after Colin's son, Jack Pyne who now runs it I believe.
We'll try and keep this sunshine going till 3rd August and look forward to seeing you all then. Safe jouney everyone.
Kath

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 11:31 AM

How has the presence of the Napoli impacted on visitors to the beach or to the town in general? News reports last night suggested it's much quieter than usual - hopefully that means the locals will be delighted to see us!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 01:33 PM

I should think it's much quieter than usual due to the weather! From what I can gather the one industry which is doing really well out of this summer's appalling weather has been the travel industry...people can't get out of the country fast enough

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Tom Bliss
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 01:42 PM

Well, the explosion has provided a new clutch of ideas for the songwriting course at least :-)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 07:13 PM

Early arrivals please note that there will be a session on Thursday evening in the Bedford.

Gets bigger every year.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Sue the Borderer
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 07:49 PM

Lady Policeman,
Keeping the sunshine going til 3rd August just isn't enough! We need it til at least the 11th! Or preferably the 19th so it shines on Bideford Folk Festival which is the week afer Sidmouth.

And, yes! I'm very excited too. I'm currently on the look out for morris sides/ display sides/street performers etc who want to come and perform in the Anchor Open Garden sessions, particularly on the Monday when I'm MCing there. Anyone interested - let me know. (I will be offline for a bit, though)

Sue

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Phot
Date: 19 Jul 07 - 05:04 PM

I would be, but the prats I work for won't let me change duties for one night. So once again I can't make shanty night. But I'm probably off to the Gulf again soon, anyone fancy a singaround in Iraq?

Not really wassailing. Chris.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: fiddler
Date: 20 Jul 07 - 03:14 AM

Ach Chris, it will be all the better to see you when you cna get to wherever they let you come to!

Meanwhile how many landrovers going to Sidders to pull the campers on to the field.

The weather may be a bore but the atmosphere is always great when the weather is bad.

I'll see you all there or not.

Chris Keep yet pekker up and take care we'll see you all soon.

Andy

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Essex Girl
Date: 20 Jul 07 - 05:40 AM

Only two weeks to go!!! Can't wait.See you at the Volunteer on Friday Lynne.(and afterwards in the Bedford)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Lady Policeman
Date: 20 Jul 07 - 03:25 PM

Sidmouth is as busy as ever. I think the businesses have done well, there were loads of people who came down in February just to see the Napoli when it's usually very quiet here. Now people are turning up to see it blown apart. It was this divorced this morning and now you can see it in two halves, the stern still on the sandbank and the bow towed out to sea.Holiday accommodation seem full up and cafes doing a brisk trade.
We've had some lovely weather for the past two days, very little rain and many sunny intervals which by looking at the weather charts for the rest of England is good, we need to keep the campsite as dry as possible. Sue, I'll try and keep the good weather till the end of August just to cover all eventualities.
The locals are always pleased to see the Folkies, it's only the few who complain and they'd complain if you didn't come!!
See you all soon.
PS Saw that one self catering flat is still available on the seafront over Folk Week if you don't want to risk the campsite.Takes four. PM me if you want to know the agency.
Kath

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 07:14 AM

"Meanwhile how many landrovers going to Sidders to pull the campers on to the field."

Andy the current count is 1 with you and however many Alan White and the campsite team bring with them.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 07:32 AM

! 100 ! And dont forget The Newt !

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Chris Murray
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 10:12 AM

How do you know when it's coming up to 100? Do you have to count them?

I'm getting quite excited about Sidmouth because I'm going to see Lau and Altan. Whoo-hoo!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,flyingcat
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 10:31 AM

Good to hear you'll be at Saltburn, hope to hear you singing lots, I'll be there with Sarah and Carolyn and we're really looking forward to it. It sound like being a really great festival. Love Moira

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 01:08 PM

Chris, you ARE no 100. It tells you on the thread listing, i.e before you open the thread. Now letes see if we can get to 200 before 3rd August?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Chris Murray
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 06:11 PM

Dur!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Rumncoke
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 07:49 PM

Already starting to get everything together - but I printed out the program and it seems there is no mid day song session in the Theatre Bar this year!!

I supose it cures some part of my usual problem of wanting to be in two places at the same time, but does anyone know the reason for it?

I hope the weather improves, even though I am packing my wet weather gear it is going to be miserable camping/dancing in the wet.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 21 Jul 07 - 09:34 PM

Hi Rum

The Theatre Bar is being used for something else this year.

Kitty and Tim will be holding their singarounds in the Bar of the York and Faulkner.

The same room as Rosy's Come All Ye and the Doom Gloom and Despondency workshop.

The Working Prog is now downloadable from the Folk Week website and all of the afore mentioned appear therein.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 22 Jul 07 - 02:31 PM

Rumncoke - Tim and I are running a 10.30-12 sing anyway from Sunday morning onwards. We might continue until 12.30 if this can be done without interfering with the normal business of the Faulkner Bar.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mrs_Annie
Date: 22 Jul 07 - 04:41 PM

We've read the working programme and decided there's far too much on- how are we ever going to get to drink in the pubs ? ;)

Seriously, the programme is packed with good stuff. Most looking forward to seeing Wistman's Wood as the EP I bought from Jackie is very good.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Rumncoke
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 06:07 AM

Ah - Thanks Kitty - I have now found your listing in the program - I have usually only managed to get to the last part of the Theatre Bar session - I always want/need to be in two places at once at Sidmouth.

I think that the only option is to create a two day rota, so that I can get to one particular event/session every two days.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 07:07 AM

One thing it says in the Working programme about Day tickets isn't entirely accurate: it says those ordered by 14th July are being posted out. I went to buy them in person on 30th June, but couldn't have them as they weren't even printed, but was told I could collect on arrival in Sidmouth: I have an email from the Ticket Office that confirms this.
Just been hunting out my copy of the "Sidmouth Herald" for 26th January this year(Grateful thanks to mother-in-law for sending it, and to me for not binning it!): an absolute mine of resources for the "Napoli Song" for those considering the song-writing. No doubt plenty of stuff on the Herald website too.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 11:20 AM

"We've read the working programme and decided there's far too much on- how are we ever going to get to drink in the pubs?"

Too true! And three cheers for the volunteer committees and teams who have worked so hard all year to put it together.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 11:26 AM

Where is Lizzie?.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: My guru always said
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 01:07 PM

Yas, Lizzie Cornish name is no longer current on the Cat apparently.

However, I should point out to Joe or a Clone that there appear to be at least 6 other login names which would apply to our Lizzie, perhaps these should be looked at if necessary?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 01:09 PM

You mean like Uncle Boko?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 23 Jul 07 - 02:36 PM

Re the Day tickets, I have to say that I have been less than happy about those. The ordering form details quite clearly stated that tickets would be sent out by registered delivery, and then I got an email saying that I had indicated that I would collect my day tickets from the Ham ... which I had certainly not! I emailed back, and asked for clarification and for despatch of my tickets, and despite the fact that at least three weeks have gone by have received no reply whatsoever - not even the courtesy of an acknowledgement !

I spoke to the TIC, who told me that Day Tickets were being treated as Season tickets (ie not posted out). When the full programme arrived - lo and behold it says that day tickets would be posted out if the order was processed before July 14th - which mine most certainly have not been!

Working as I do in a theatre box office,I am somewhat unimpressed by the contradictory statements which I have read and received verbally, and the somewhat slapdash approach to customer service! I gather that there will be feedback forms, and was told by TIC that I should fill one in - which I certainly shall do.

Apart from that gripe, I am really looking forward to getting down to Sidmouth (but not the walk to the Ham when I get there, which I would rather have avoided on day of arrival!)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Mrs_Annie
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 05:27 AM

I wonder if there is some confusion on their part with the event tickets?
I ordered some evening concerts, and these were sent to me by registered post.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: JennyO
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 07:55 AM

Well Lizzie can't be too far away. Here's a list of Lizzie's posts - the last one being only 10 days ago.

She just hasn't posted here. Wonder why?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 08:03 AM

The concensus seems to be that she's been banned.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Albion Lady
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 08:03 AM

It's me...Lizzie.

This is my last ever post on Mudcat or anywhere else.

I will never write about Sidmouth again, it is no longer my festival, many people in here have seen to that.

I will no longer write in Mudcat because Joe has told me that both Diane and I are the two most obnoxious posters they have ever had.

I will no longer read the twisted words of people who hate me,without even knowing me.

I will no longer respond to people like Giok above who has tried to infer that I am someone else, I am not.

I do not want to write on the BBC or on here or anywhere else....other than with Sam. As I've said before his folk world is kind, supportive, interesting, fascinating and beautiful.

I don't need people who hate me.

I hope those that do manage to turn their hate right around and banish the bitterness that seems to pervade their souls.

I have a far better life outside of here now....with the music...MY music, for none of you will ever take it away from me! Scrump told me to always love the music, always and so I take his words away to a far better place...

The music will always live on, but it will live on through Love...not Hate...It has been surrounded by people who choose to hate, for way too long....

That is all changing now..All of it.

I hope all of you who love Sidmouth, continue to love and support it...and get much enjoyment from it.


Lizzie

PS..And don't worry Joe, you can zap this immediately and then zap me.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Ralph
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 08:45 AM

Lizzie
How many lasts posts have you got up to now?
Just wondering.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 09:05 AM

Yawn, Yawn.

I wish you every happiness in Canada (or indeed wherever) Lizzie. You have to realise it is your postings that cause the trouble - not you.

Dave

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Joe Offer
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 09:30 AM

Well, the age-old advice is not to address trolls, and they'll get bored and go away. If you continue to talk about them, they'll stick around to see what people are saying about them.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 09:38 AM

Wow - we got to almost a hundred posts without a Sidmouth thread becoming all about Lizzie! And amazingly, it was getting on really well, everyone chatting, being polite and enthusiastic...fancy that!

I've just noticed that Nabcy Kerr and James Fagan are opening for Eliza and the Ratcatcher. That will be a cracking gig. I really enjoyed Nancy and James at Cheltenham earlier this year.

I hope Eliza remembers NOT to wear knitwear - she nearly melted into a puddle at Shepley!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 09:40 AM

Nabcy? I clearly meant Nancy...and the RatchatcherS. Teach me to post while answering the phone.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: billybob
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 09:41 AM

Bill and I are not going to be able to get to Sidmouth after all for health reasons, very sad! However, we have had to cancel our b and b( did it today) so if anyone needs somewhere really lovely to stay I can recommend "Lavenders blue" at Sidford, we were there last year and it is the best b and b I have ever stayed in!
Have a lovely week.
Wendy

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 10:08 AM

Saying about who Joe? :-)

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: dame leon
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 05:02 PM

Anyone know what the drinking water will be like this year? Has it been affected by the floods?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 05:14 PM

What floods?! I think it's one of the areas of the country least affected.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Sorcha
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 05:18 PM

Bye Lizzie. Have a real good time in Canada with Sam.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 24 Jul 07 - 07:48 PM

Who drinks water?
It's BEER for most of us!

Colyn.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Viv
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 03:54 AM

I am particularly looking forward to having a shower, we have had no water for three days now and it looks like it could be off for 14 days so i advise everyone to keep away from me until i have booked in to the B&B and luxuriated in the shower. Having said that we are lucky that we are not flooded out like other people locally.

Viv

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 06:54 AM

Perhaps that should be a new marketing ploy for Sidmouth:

"Enjoy the luxuries of festival living - Hot showers! Clean drinking water! No wading through raw sewage! Cosy, dry tents!"

It's come to something when festival camping represents a qualitative move upward in lifestyle terms...

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 07:26 AM

Let me take you out of all the squalor that you live dear.
To the squalor that I live in!

Giok ¦¬]

[It's a jocular remark btw]

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 07:26 AM

Don't be so quick to push cosy dry tents! I've just seen the long range forecast!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 07:41 AM

Well have a good time everyone who knows me and those who don't know me.I will be back one day you wait and see.


Good Luck with the weather.

Scooby.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 08:07 AM

My bit of Lincs has escaped the floods so far, so no squalor to rescue me from quite yet, G!

I have to confess, I'm in a cottage for Sidmouth...real beds, duvets, and somewhere to make a bacon butty and plug in my straighteners...

Now THAT's festival luxury.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 08:20 AM

Caravan with fixed bed, and own shower, full sized cooker and own shower.
LUXURY at half the price mate.
G ¦¬]

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 08:36 AM

I'm sharing with several others so it's quite cheap. And within stumbling distance of several hostelries, from what I gather.

You've got to have priorities.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,The Barden of England at work
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 09:11 AM

I'm in 'The Devoran' right on the Esplanade, shower, bath, cooked breakfast and wonderful 5 course evening meal. It'll be my last year there as money will force us to use the caravan next year - but then again it can be fun up there on the main campsite, and the bus certainly runs late. Starting to get demob happy, and it's still over a week off.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 03:52 PM

I've had an e-mail from the Royal York saying they're looking forward to seeing me at 10.30 am on Sunday 5 August (for the singaround).

I'll be singing in the Anchor next Thursday, Friday and Saturday first, though (better sort out some t-shirts).....

Kitty

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 03:55 PM

Yep, I'll be in the Anchor, hopefully Thursday evening...c u there

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Dave Higham
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 06:28 PM

I'm not getting excited 'cos I'm not going. Haven't been for years, haven't been able to, and I somehow think it might be a mistake to go back now.

I have such magical memories you see. Len's farewell "This is your life" party in the Balfour when Martin Ellison told the story of the bloke who held the record for buying the last pint. Sidmouth lost its soul when Len left the Balfour. Then driving back to the flat at 3 in the morning and parking the car in the ford.

And the Dove. Anyone remember the Silent Singaround in aid of Taffy?

'Eric' in concert in the Drill Hall and the wonderful 'Housewives Choice' and Kerry from Paddington's birthday party in that pub on the sea-front. Ralphie will remember.

The Kipper Family in the Drill Hall with their 'sweet-corn dolly'

Dancing with Handsworth in front of 4,500 people on the Arena stage on the Friday night of the Silver Jubilee year. When it started raining the whole hillside turned orange and blue.

I'm sure if I went back it wouldn't be the same.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Cllr
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 06:31 PM

I will be in my flat better than tent, caravan, or rented property 8-)
Cllr
ok it does have some drawbacks i have leadfingers in the garden 8-)))

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,ibo
Date: 26 Jul 07 - 06:55 AM

sids boyfriend i would imagine?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 26 Jul 07 - 07:56 AM

Dave it is indeed very different but perhaps you could go back and treat it as a new and different festival? Less of the silly, impromptu things seem to happen these days, partly due, I think, to all the innumerable rules and regulations we're bound about with, but they do still happen. Last year there were sessions in the ford and in the sea. The year before we had a 'Not the Arena Concert', which was great fun. It's changed but it's still what you make it.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jul 07 - 08:05 AM

Well I set off on Thursday morning to do the 655 miles to sunny Sidders, so I don't think I'll be there for Thursday evening's jollifications.
See you in the Volly on Friday night Lynne.
This also means that I will not be able get my weeks parking in town arranged. Bloody dentist GRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Giok

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: ShadyLady
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 06:27 AM

That time of year must have come round again! Lots of money is spent on texts, and everyone's getting excited (mainly me!) Even though I'm not going till Thursday, I have to be packed and ready by Monday! I love Sidmouth, and I don't think I'd be able to live if it weren't on, especially not this year because of Miskin being cancelled. I've got loads of friends there who I only see once or twice a year!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Lady Policeman
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 10:19 AM

Just passed the campsite and it looks a bit muddy at the entrance but there's quite a few organisers tents and caravans already there and they're using the gate to the side, I presume in an attempt not to churn up the main entrance for Friday. Marquee is going up at Bulverton field. I've looked at the local weather forecast and although heavy rain is expected on Sun/Mon it just says 'Partly Clouded' from Mon 31st July onwards so that gives us four or five days for the site to dry. Just need a good breeze!Saturday 4th 'Mostly sunny'. There, does that make you all a bit more excited!!
Kath
PS NEVER TRUST A BRITISH WEATHER FORECAST!!! Still bring yur wellies or Crocs!!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,GUEST
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 01:20 PM

Not sure if this is a British weather forecast or a foreign one !

Nevertheless it looks good for when I get to Sidmouth !

http://www.wetterzentrale.de/pics/ecmpanel1.gif

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 01:22 PM

Not too sure about a foreign weather site posted by an unnamed person.
G

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 05:01 PM

Should we trust a Lady Policeman? But happen to know she can be trusted to sing well! Hope you're getting some time off during festival week, Kath!
Special request for Breton Cap: the Ellen Vannin disaster: was discussing said song with a friend last night: she has got the words off the net (with a reference to your real name on the sheet) but doesn't know the tune: I can only remember the chorus. I'll bring my technology with me, if you will please sing it again!
She also has another lovely song re Ellen Vannin: more about the beauty of the Isle of Man.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Surreysinger
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 05:34 PM

Tattie ... the words and tune are to be found amongst the items on Digitrad, under the title of Ellen Vannen (misspelled unfortunately) - tune by Hugh Jones, and performed in the sixties (?) by the Spinners, which is where I remember learning the song from in the Seventies.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 06:52 PM

Thanks Surrey singer: I got the words myself, but didn't realise the tune was there too. And I've also discovered it's on a Double LP of the Spinners I bought last year for all of £1 in - guess where - Sidmouth of course!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 27 Jul 07 - 07:05 PM

Shady - thanks for reminding me why I've been getting excited about Sidmouth since I was in my teens! Looking forward to seeing you at the Volunteer (if not before in the Anchor).

Kitty

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: vectis
Date: 29 Jul 07 - 06:03 PM

Bad news - I've just managed to break my right ankle so am fully plastered before my first pint.

Good News - I've got a loan of a tiny mobility scooter for the week.

Bad news - It has a range that is almost non-existant and can't be used in the wet.

Good news - I have a spare battery so can swap them to keep mobile.

Good news - I'm on the official site and can use the busses to get down into the town.

Does anybody live/knows someone who lives/staying near the festival bus stops and has space for a 3ft by fractionally over 1ft lightweight scooter and would let me charge my battery there? I am happy to recompense you for the electricity used and would be really grateful.

Mary

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Sally the Lemonade Lady
Date: 29 Jul 07 - 06:08 PM

Looking forward to seeing you all in the Blackmore Gardens. Come and get your 50p's worth and sign the sheet. I'll be there on Friday.

xx Sally xx

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 29 Jul 07 - 06:12 PM

I don't know where Cllr's place is, you might try him Mary. Sorry to hear about your ankle though.
Giok

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 29 Jul 07 - 06:17 PM

Hi Mary
Last year the nice people in the Camp Site office allowed me to charge my cycle battery overnight in their office.
Assuming your scooter is transportable by bus or your car I am sure that similr facilities would be offered to you if you were to ask.
Colyn.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Morticia
Date: 29 Jul 07 - 06:38 PM

Sorry to hear that,Mary, are you going to need assistance to get upstairs to the sing in the Anchor? I am sure we could have some burly folkies standing by.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 30 Jul 07 - 05:42 AM

Message from Derek Schofield in Sidmouth:

The weather in Sidmouth was fine this weekend, and the forecast for the next fortnight is mostly dry and sunny. the campsite is drying out as well.

Don't forget your sun cream!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: vectis
Date: 30 Jul 07 - 11:57 AM

The scooter is too heavy to transport easily by bus. It has to be taken apart to get it into the boot of a car.
The range is truly pathetic but better if there are no hills involved so there is no chance of getting it up to the campsite under its own steam.
It is perfect for getting about on the esplanade and the flat bit of the town though.
I can't ask my friend to transport the battery/s because she would not then be able to carry her instrument and that would be totally unfair on her.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 30 Jul 07 - 12:36 PM

latest weather update from Derek Schofield in Sidmouth:

Hot and sunny all day. People sunbathing on the beach, and on the promenade wearing shorts.


Don't forget your bucket and spade!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,NicP
Date: 30 Jul 07 - 02:35 PM

You bet I'm excited - first Sidmouth for 10 years as a single bloke. Now have to see if I can remember how single blokes act. Any suggestions?

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Chris Murray
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 11:06 AM

They drink a lot of beer.

Has anyone noticed how, in a festival crowd, there are always lots of large men who just stand in the middle of the crowd? They don't move, don't beat time or dance a little jig to themselves. They don't join in or look particularly happy. They just stand.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: lilly
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 01:05 PM

My first time as a single woman! Do they drink a lot of beer too and just stand about ?! Let's hope not, how can you just stand when there's so much humpity english music to tap and sway and bump too ? !!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 01:07 PM

Somebody please remind me again what I need to do to get a weekly parking ticket, at either the car park opposite the Bedford, or the rugby club. I shall be arriving late afternoon Thursday.
Giok

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Cats
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 02:52 PM

Single men.. If you haven't been single for 10 years you'll find it very different now. Firstly don't forget that you are 10 years older as well. Lots of beer? no, defintley designer water for most of the day and a few beers in the evening. Getting ratted? A definite no no. make sure you have everything you actually need for the week. Scrounging off nubile young women...they might think you have an ulterior motive! Enjoy yourself.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Rumncoke
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 02:55 PM

I have got weekly tickets at the Rugby club by turning up and asking for one at the gate - they might have changed things recently, I supose - there was something about large vehicles costing more to park last year - but you will be there early, so there should be some left.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 03:01 PM

Giok, I've checked and the carpark opposite the Bedford (at the Cricket ground) won't be available till after Saturday. But you should be able to simply arrive at thr Rugby Club on Thursday afternoon and buy a week-long parking pass.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 03:08 PM

Thanks folkies
G

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 07:32 PM

Another reason for excitement.

Guide Cats for the Blind, Volume 3 will be making its first appearance under the title of

"Top Cat, White Tie, and Tails"

Featuring the talents of Joss Ackland, Jenny Agutter, Robert Lindsay, Andrew Sachs, Edward de Souza, Tim Brooke - Taylor (Oh Goody.....Uh, Sorry, couldn't resist.), and a host of others performing, as usual, the creations of the redoubtable Les Barker.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 08:28 PM

Well I've already got vols 1 and 2, so s'pose I'll have to keep the collection going! Looking forward to hearing more of YOUR songs, Don.
I'm getting really excited now: only hours till we leave home, so this is my LAST POST, and any burglars out there, just be aware that I'm leaving behind a Sumo wrestler, a heavyweight boxer, an extremely pugnacious daughter and a very LARGE dog!

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 31 Jul 07 - 08:52 PM

Looking forward to seeing you again TB. Thursday evening at the Bedford, perhaps. Clive will be there too, among others.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: The Barden of England
Date: 01 Aug 07 - 04:18 AM

For John 'Giok' MacKenzie - - The car park opposite the Bedford allows camper vans on, a friend of mine always stays there. Just buy a ticket for the week from the little hut at the entrance. Warning though - if he doesn't like the look of the van he'll probably say no. Showers can be had at the Yacht Club, as can decent breakfasts too.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 01 Aug 07 - 07:34 AM

I'm glad Clive's going! I hope he will make his usual appearance at the Volly on Friday night. I look forward to his latest songs with eager anticipation

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 01 Aug 07 - 05:51 PM

I believe Clive has a conflicting outing on Friday Lynne, and won't be at the Volly.

I plan to be there, tho'

Don T.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 01 Aug 07 - 05:54 PM

Excitement steadily mounting. HTR (hit the road) minus 7 hours and counting.

See y'all!

Don T.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Heather
Date: 01 Aug 07 - 06:08 PM

Oh Yes Yes Yes my annual dose of Morris on Sea with crab sarnies and the man with the very large stripey trousers.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: My guru always said
Date: 02 Aug 07 - 03:56 PM

Have a wonderful time you Lot, sorry we can't be there this year! Wishing you good weather, company, singing, music & beer *not in any particular order*

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 02 Aug 07 - 05:33 PM

Hi guys,

16 hours to Sidmouth!!!!   So much to do, so little time!! Sod it - if it doesn't get done, I'm off to Sidmouth!!!!

See you there guys!!!!

Kev
come and say hello - I'm a Steward

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: vectis
Date: 02 Aug 07 - 06:07 PM

Van packed and ready to roll. Now all I need is a driver.
Off in about 12 hours see you all tomorrow evening.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: Cats
Date: 03 Aug 07 - 06:53 AM

Jon is packed and ready to go in the morning. I'll be down midweek. No voice and a very chesty cough [I know with a big chest like mine it has to be a very chesty cough!], can't sing at the moment so am looking out for a man with very small hands and a large pot of Vick.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,Phot at work.
Date: 03 Aug 07 - 08:09 AM

Bugger!!

You lucky people all off having fun and getting piffed! I'm still stuck at work, and it's a great day for sitting around with a beer and a few good mates enjoying a sing and a natter.

Mind you, Jack has escaped, and was last seen heading South West!......................Lock up your beer, and puppies!!*G*

Wassail!! Chris.

Subject: RE: Who's getting excited about Sidmouth?
From: GUEST,ms lemon
Date: 29 Aug 07 - 11:30 AM

The organisers of Sidmouth could really do with contacting Allan and Sandra Surtees with regards to setting out a campsite. shrewsbury Festival's site was wonderful.

sal