Broadstairs 2009

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 04:20 PM

Wish I'd known, Pip

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romanyman
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 12:55 PM

oi pip no self advertising , how s uni , Ken

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,pipives
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 11:14 AM

Hi all,

Just stumbled across this post whilst at uni, very bored.

What a great week it was for me! Busses were great this year, singarounds/session were great too. The newcastle kingsmen were there for one night only and filled a collection tin (rather than collecting for themselves) which was good.

The sessions in the Crown always seemed good when I was there (maybe because I started them?) and Jim the Landlord is well up for something official in there next year.

Can't wait to be back

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,me
Date: 12 Sep 09 - 04:24 PM

fantastic fest, concerts were mind blowing. hot club, tim edey& seamus begley, penguin cafe people were all a real treat. in response to the music in the pubs is crap comment did u see the roots union, nathan ball, nick holmes? i would b interested to know what u did see.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Sarah Savoy
Date: 28 Aug 09 - 02:19 PM

Hey, DeadHorse

Ouais, c'est ça!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 28 Aug 09 - 01:43 PM

Sarah, I guess thats what you call Lagniappe, huh? :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 28 Aug 09 - 01:38 PM

If it's good enough for New York...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Sarah Savoy
Date: 28 Aug 09 - 12:54 PM

Well, now I feel silly, as I didn't realize I'd be called GUEST twice... Sorry about that, y'all.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,GUEST Sarah Savoy
Date: 28 Aug 09 - 12:44 PM

Hi folks

I checked the Gigs Remembered page and liked some of the photos a lot, but I don't know who took them or how to get in touch with him/her to ask for them in hi-res. I'd appreciate any photos that any of you may have being sent to [e-mail] if you wouldn't mind sharing.

Thanks to those of you who came to see us and sorry to those of you who couldn't get in. I hope you all had as great a time as we did.

Best regards

Sarah Savoy

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romanyman
Date: 24 Aug 09 - 05:31 PM

the front was full of them all week, on saturday the gongscourers made life a bit hard for one of them and he soon moved when asked to cough up his takings for the festival, as far as i know nobody chased them up at all.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 24 Aug 09 - 09:41 AM

I echo that, Rafflesbear. T D L did exactly that. Perhaps it was a small hassle for the shop staff, as we never seemed to get much in the tin,though, when Stormalong's little 'un Chloe was rattling our tin we got a lot more.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 24 Aug 09 - 09:12 AM

Norcsalordie used to use the tins - they went to the office, signed for a tin, played their stint, took it back a bit heavier - no mention of hassle

Their benefit was any CD sales

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: stormalong
Date: 24 Aug 09 - 08:33 AM

I saw no "official buskers" this year. I was told by some former official buskers that that dealing with the tins was too much hassle.

Richard

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 23 Aug 09 - 12:31 PM

It certainly does. Were any of them stopped from doing so, or moved on?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romanyman
Date: 23 Aug 09 - 09:51 AM

sadly there were loads of "buskers" getting money for themselves, surely this needs looking into.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Sian H
Date: 22 Aug 09 - 09:36 AM

I had a fantastic time at Broadstairs. Thanks to the organisers for all their hard work. I sang with Rattlebag and we all agree that we were given a friendly welcome at each venue. Thanks to our hosts Pete & Mike, and Tom & Barbara. Also the campsite staff were great sorting out our billets. Our impromptu turn on the Pavillion stage was great fun too, and warmly received. And the weather was great too!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 22 Aug 09 - 04:22 AM

Did anyone see any buskers on the prom with yellow tins?

I only saw people collecting for themselves

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 03:18 PM

Dillie, was there much room next to Peter?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Crampton
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 11:17 AM

BFW Preview on 'Your Kent TV'

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 10:45 AM

Trevor Stephenson's late night Americana session at the school (held on the Tuesday) is also worthy of mention. Great atmosphere, some outstanding musicianship and such musical sensitivity from those who took part.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 09:53 AM

Sorry, Charlotte - I'm trying to remember the faces of those who didn't sing, and I still can't place you - I feel quite ashamed...

Wasn't that a fantastic night though? Those three girls from the Shooting Roots workshops AND Rose, Sartin, etc. You know, the singarounds are in danger of becoming the new cool! (We wish...) I mean, WE all know how good and how much fun they are, and that the younger festival goers enjoy them when they do venture in, but it's GETTING them in that's the problem.

Any ideas?

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie the oast ouse opper
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 09:31 AM

Hello

In response to BB, I was in many of your singarounds in the week, and on the thursday was sat next to the wonderful Pete Collins, but didn't feel up to singing once half of Bellowhead/whapwheasal/faustus had walked in!!!

Looking forward to next year and will endeavour to learn some new songs before I come back :0) xxx

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 08:28 AM

Raffles and Romany - check out here for news of 1: The Otford Duck Pond and 2: The Crown 2009 Beer & Folk Weekend.

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 08:04 AM

Ok BB - apology accepted. I'm a little touchy at the moment, that's all.

Couldn't have made it this year (even if I had changed my mind and decided to come after all) as I went down with Swine Flu!!! Yes the weather was fantastic - I saw most of it from indoors that week!!

Raffles and Romany - you know my views and opionions. But I'm glad things were ok for you this year.

See you at Faversham!

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romanyman
Date: 21 Aug 09 - 04:54 AM

Come back Kev all is forgiven , hee hee , snigger snigger, sorry yah missed a good un this year mate,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Sue TDL
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 07:03 PM

Found them all. Love the one with the horses. Have commented on that one.What was happening to the sound at The Rose? Shame Chloe was behind the speaker. Otherwise very good.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 04:49 PM

Hi Sue - search for 'folknstuff' - there's six

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Sue TDL
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 04:45 PM

Have just been on Youtube. There's some right old rubbish on there purporting to be about Folk Week.. spesh... loads of people just milling about The Albion Gardens. Didn't see anything og The Winsocks. Going back now.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 04:07 PM

Hi Kev

Speaking for myself I hope to see you there next year - the long range forecast is good :-)

(ps check out The Winsocks on youtube)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 03:59 PM

Sorry, Kev, I wasn't STARTING anything! It was, I thought, just a discussion! I'm sorry you took offence when none was in any way intended.

Try coming back next year, and we can meet face to face, and see that there's no problem. :-)

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 03:43 PM

please don't start BB! I stayed away this year - wasn't negative - made a positive comment that I was glad that things had improved this year - and STILL I am picked up on a comment that I make!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 03:38 PM

Many of the items that Rafflesbear summarised from this site have been addressed, in whole or in part. A number are still only somewhat improved. From my limited part weekend experience this year, I would say

1 - Security at the campsite - much improved, but I did notice even over the opening weekend a diminution in gate supervision on field C and I never saw any on the entrances from the footpath into fields B and C.

2 - Safety within the town at night - possibly worse

3 - Overcrowding at singaround sessions - The Crown is an improvement. Could still improve more. School could still be nice with use of room dividers and suitable lighting. Why not Moor and Coast tent or veggie tent?

4 - Crappers on campsite better, but removed too soon (I rely on reports from others as one of the MAIN reasons for a caravan is to have private crapping and midnight piddling).

5 - Blue Badge scheme - I have no idea

6 - Crap music in pubs. I think this is still an issue and maybe getting worse.

7 - Transport - the minibus seemed better, but I still never knew where or when to find it to come back up from town. However now I know that a taxi is only three quid I am less exercised (pun intended).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 02:59 PM

Ah, and as to the point about Festival guests or such being needed to run sessions. We offered our services last year to run something at the campsite in return for perhaps one season ticket. An informal stage was set up in the tea tent but was very underused. Mutterings were heard that "If someone was running it properly, people would have played there." TDL have plenty of experience at running sessions in all sorts of places, and we are sure that other people would have filled in, if asked.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 02:50 PM

I have a Mudcat badge, as does Trev, but they are always "somewhere else". Trevor has a blue badge too.... so.....
Being allowed to keep a car by us on Field A would be a plus. We'd be there if we could. though We go on C because we can keep the car by us.Field A is the site of the only disabled toilet.Ok we don't have to use it, but when I was on crutches, it was easier.
We used our car several times. Sometimes we had a fair walk to where it was parked, but it got us down that hill.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 10:44 AM

The festival has always taken notice of feedback from whatever quarter - it's always welcome. One of the secrets of running a good annual event is to tweak it each year, so that it always improves rather than gradually deteriorating. You can't please all the people all the time, but most festival organisers do what they can to please as many people as they can as much of the time as they can. And that's exactly what Jo and Kim try to do, as far as I can tell.

Oh, and Kev, not all Mudcatters have badges, nor would we necessarily be able to read it across a crowded room!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: banjoman
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 09:45 AM

A really great week and the weather was kind to us as well. I echo the point about disabled drivers being asked to move their cars from the camp site. This has caused me problems over the years and this year I just refused to move it while other people were driving cars on and off the site all week. I feel sure that in negotiating the hire of the school fieds that some arrangement could be agreed for blue badge holders.
That aside- Old Trout band had a great time - enjoyed the Maypole dancing- but worked so hard all week that we have decided to have another holiday somewhere we are not booked (Hop Festival)

Thanks to Jo & Kim and all those who worked hard to make such a great week

Pete

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 09:35 AM

Whoops that's me

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 09:34 AM

looking back, do you think we here at Mudcat had any effect with our ramblings and letters? We're all agreed it was great this year - were there real changes or did the sun just shine?

This was my contribution to prodding the organisers back in January and there were others -

Dear Jo

You may be aware that the Mudcat Folk Discussion Forum is currently discussing the Broadstairs Folk Week under the thread 'Broadstairs 2009' and a lot of the posting at the moment is a continuation of the fallout from the 'Broadstairs 2008' thread where quite a number of people were expressing misgivings.

I have actively encouraged those who are complaining on the influential Mudcat website to take their grievances directly to you rather than continuing to write complaining letters to the discussion forum declaring that they will not be attending this year and putting a damper on the festival before it happens

I hope that this will help you to address their legitimate concerns and get many of these folk stalwarts back on board well before the event so that we are all able to look forward to a brilliant 2009

The main concerns as I understand them are as follows

1 - security at the campsite - although not personally affected I can see that the events of last year were totally unacceptable and that the friendly community on the campsite can only exist where there is no fear of intrusion and thuggery from any source. Could you please reassure us on this matter

2 - safety within the town at night - this is a public order problem which becomes a festival problem when it starts detering festival goers - is this one where you need to work closely with the police ?

3 - overcrowding at singaround sessions - sounds like a problem of success to me - would it be possible to run more such sessions or identify premises which would be willing to accept ad-hoc singarounds? - I reckon you would still get high numbers at the established and most popular venues - Wrotham Arms and Lord Nelson but this appears to be a big concern for many. I think we all still want the atmospheric venues so a school gym would probably not cut it

4 - the loos at the campsite clogged up and ran out of fluid well before they were maintained

5 - disabled people would like to be able to park at their camp pitch - considering the number of cars driving across the grass anyway this doesn't seem a big ask

6 - a number of people have complained that many of the bands in the pubs have been anything but folk bands. This is one where I am not sure I agree with the complainers - there are so many things going on in town that personally if I found a pub putting on music I did not like I would just move on to the next. Also alternative venues for locals not interested in folk should help distract them from worrying about the 'folkies' - however this is one of the grievances that keeps appearing

7 - a big one is the lack of simple cheap transport from the campsite down to town and back - it appears to be a real sore - no point driving down because you won't be able to park when you get there. I know that others have made more elaborate suggestions but the simplest solution that I can think of is one vehicle constantly shuttling between the campsite and the bottom of the High Street throughout the day. Perhaps you could sell books of tickets in advance?

thanks for all your efforts

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 04:49 AM

Yes Hoff, I'm alive and well :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 04:49 AM

Mudcat badges have the mudcatter's name on.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: doc.tom
Date: 20 Aug 09 - 04:36 AM

Charlote is the only person with a Mudcat badge ?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 05:11 PM

How do you tell a real one from a fake?

Oh, hello Kev, you alive then?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 05:03 PM

Why not just look for Mudcat Badges!?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 02:57 PM

It would be great if you did sing, Charlotte - I'd then know who you were! Perhaps we should ask everyone for their names, whether they sing or not... Glad you enjoyed them though. :-)

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie the oast ouse opper
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 09:06 AM

Well....what a week!

the one low point for me was on Monday, where my younger sisters side the Minster Mayhems were about to perform on the Bandstand, and in the process of assembling the Maypole, my darling sister and a friend managed to drop the maypole on my head....one trip to A&E later, an accident form, and a mild concussion later, and I was all fixed again...thanks to the wonderful Tess, Harry and Alice (dropper of large steel maypole) for looking after me!

Singarounds at the Sailing club great as ever, (promise to sing next year, honest...) and the concerts on Weds and Thurs a real traditional flavour that I just loved, from some great perfromers..

the beach cafe were visited by the police during the week, but licensing staff for the council don't work on weekends (helpful!!), so by the time the noise levels were investigated, the noise has abated a bit which was a shame...I believe the council will be investigating this further!

There seemed to be a really good feeling around the festival this year, and while the area on Albion Street got a bit grim and filled with twits with bright blue alcopops, I didn't see any trouble.

The celidih mail didn't really have many people wanting to add something to it, and to answer a comment above, the 20p charge is a suggested donation, not a fixed price! I worked in both the festival shop and campsite admin office, and it was really rare to get something to add in to the CM....more next year please! there were some great ones in there though, like about the lady from Royal Libs whose finger wasn't very well, but was fixed with glue after a trip to A&E in a festival bus...

There was a good mix of morris sides on offer this year, and a highlight for me was watching aforementioned younger sister dance the entirity of the torchlight procession backwards 'rant' stepping all the way, so she could call moves to the little ones as they followed her down the hill...lovely to see the young ones getting involved!

I believe the showers leaving on Friday also came as somewhat of a surprise to the organisers as well as the workforce and all the lovely festival goers too - this is being looked at! It came as a surprise to me, as I was going to have a shower after my last shift in the office....apologies to those of you who had to stand near me on the final day sans shower...

I witnessed three seperate sessions at varying times of day in the Crown, and many people felt this was a good place to have an imrpomptu session.

I think that this year was one of the best, and cannot wait for BFW 2010....

lots of love and yellow and black good times :0)

Charlotte

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 11:31 AM

No wonder interest rates are so low.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 11:20 AM

Dunno where gil friday was at 7.30am ....still in bed... but I got up and dressed to hobble over to the toilets at soon after eight. I thought that they had gone then, as I couldn't see them from my angle of approach. Incidentally, how could anyone "make a deposit" on the side of the toilet earlier in the week?.... disgusting... and only a couple of hours after they'd been serviced too....

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 09:08 AM

Richard, the problem of the Albion Garden noise will be relayed to the powers that be, along with other comments.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 09:07 AM

It seems to me that it would be a bit much to ask for the festival to put even more 'official' performers in a venue such as The Crown. There are already at least five events a day at which people can perform, more or less informally, i.e. lunchtime in the Nep, the Nelson (and I think that's two a day, isn't it?), the Woodshed, the Folk Club and the Singaround, all of which have someone leading them. Surely casual performers who can't find what they want in any of those should be able to get their own session going in The Crown, and make it work for them. That's what we did in that very place twenty-something years ago, which led to the official Singaround in subsequent years.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 05:46 AM

No, Kevin, the signing is by mute performers and/or for deaf audiences...

Yes, I think a "drop-in" session is very good, but the couple of times I got in there were not all that positive - it was however very early in the week (before even the real ale was on, on the Friday) but what you say sounds good.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 05:14 AM

"...might the informal playing and signing in there..."

Blimey! I didn't realise we had to sign in as well! (tee-hee!)

I spent very little time in The Crown (mainly because I was very busy elsewhere), so it's difficult for me to comment on the above issue. But I think it's very positive that we now have a "drop-in" session there. I also noticed on one occasion that the landlord had provided substantial plates of grub for the performers. Good for him!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 03:47 AM

PS - I was only there on the first Friday and Saturday, so maybe the Crown developed as the week went on. Views?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 03:46 AM

Assuming that the Crown is still with us next year, might the informal playing and signing in there be "seeded" by a paid performer (or a volunteer or two who want free camping) so that there was constantly a welcoming ambience rather than the feeling of intruding into the world of chavncrime?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: stormalong
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 06:04 PM

Barbara

Fingers crossed for the overhead fans!

I heard the same about people coming into the Sailing Club because they couldn't get into other venues. Background noise is unfortunate for those with quieter voices, but, I agree, unavoidable. Noise pollution from other festival events, on the other hand, is far more off-putting for singers IMO and could, presumably, be addressed by the festival organisers.

I don't think anything can be done about the plastic disposables littering Albion and Harbour Streets except to sweep up afterwards. I was thinking more of the promenade where people had made an effort to use the bins but they were overflowing. A lot of people in that area seemed to have brought their own cans and bottles (with backup supplies hidden in the bushes I am told) and I saw a long row of empty glass bottles balanced precariously on top of the wall above the central steps to the beach, which posed an obvious health and safety risk.

For the benefit of anyone reading this post out of context, I should point out that the crowds, litter and hard boozing is now a weekly occurrence in Broadstairs during the summer, and not down to the folkies.

Anyway, enough criticism. This was a great festival.

Richard

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 05:32 PM

Glad it all went well! Sidmouth was MOSTLY wet, but it was probably the best one yet! Glad many of last year's gripes were addressed.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 04:59 PM

I really am so glad it went well. More power to us folks' elbow. Well done everybody. Lurgie kept me from attending to see you all.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romanyman
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 03:32 PM

well dunno what happend but it was a bloody good week, seemed someone was listening to the constructive comments from last year, the security was spot on and thanks to the guys who even got to join in some of the fun on the poor peoples camp site c.
Dunno where gil friday was at 7.30am sad to say that when the khazi police shut en and started to empty em an tip them on their backs, rendering them unusable. the showers started to disapear on thursday night, gripes over.
The mini bus drivers were a great help, very friendly and helpfull this year, no one could possibly have missed the ready availability, thank you drivers, for me this year was a real good un, i felt sorry for the sidmouth brigade soaking wet covered in mud, and those that made it to broady all seemed to have a chest infection, well thanks to who ever arranged the weather, perhaps next year we can pre book the weather again. I really dont know what can be done about dolphin corner, nothing i suspect there were a few minor scuffles but nothing on last years, i had to laugh at possibly the same spotty youth pertaining to be a copper who told me i could not have a glass in the street, whilst he was standing to a rather buxom "lady" swigging her asti spew manti ont of an over size bottle, and her companion slugging out of a becks bottle with another sticking out of his pocket. what about them then says i, i said no glasses mate so take it back to the nelson mate. ahah i thought a glass full of beer is far more dangerous than a bloody great bottle. must be a health and safety thing, good festival though,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 02:50 PM

Fans already mentioned to Sailing Club powers-that-be, Richard, and they had already thought about same for next year - oh, wouldn't that be blissful!

Not sure anything can be done about the noise in the bar. We were told that people were coming in to get drinks there who couldn't get into the pubs, so that might have been the cause. And we can't ask them to turn down sales in order to keep it quiet for us.

Do you mean extra bins in Albion and Harbour Streets? Not sure it would make much difference - I think the drinkers would still just drop the plastic glasses on the ground.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: DebC
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 11:34 AM

I'm glad you mentioned Michaela, Richard, as I was not able to hear her play this time. I have a wonderful Broadstairs story about Michaela.

My father and stepmother went on a cruise some 20-odd years ago in the Mediterranean and met a wonderful couple from Cornwall. The four became friends and communicate each year on holidays and birthdays.

Last May I was visiting my father and stepmother in Austin, Texas and the phone rang. They have caller ID on the telly and the number given was British phone code. No one was about, so I answered. Turns out it was these folks from Cornwall ringing up to tell my stepmom happy birthday. We got to chatting a bit and I mentioned that I'd be in England summertime but wouldn't be n ear them. They asked where I'd be and I said Broadstairs and that's when they said "Our daughter lives in Broadstairs, you must get in touch!"

Michaela and I connected on Monday night of Folk week and it was like I had found a long lost sister. I had a lovely time visiting and we even had a wee winge session about aging parents :-)

I am finding that the world is getting smaller and smaller.

Debra Cowan

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: stormalong
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 08:59 AM

I'd like to echo Bob's comment about even unaccompanied songs being "backed gently and with respect for the singers" in the Woodshed. As a frequent singer of long dreary ballads in irregular time and indeterminate key, I wouldn't normally welcome accompaniment, but this is the very spirit of the Woodshed and one should choose songs accordingly. Michaela in particular should be complimented for quick uptake and sympathetic accompaniment (besides her own phenomenal renditions of 'Mary, Don't You Weep' and the 'Erie Canal Song'). Next year I will actually plan to sing in given, session-friendly, keys...

Richard

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: stormalong
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 01:38 AM

Many thanks to Mike and Pete, Bob and Roger, and Tom and Barbara for providing such great opportunities for participation. Thanks also for the warm welcome from the musicians who play in the seafront shelter. This is what folk is all about for me - ordinary people sharing and enjoying music and song.

I hope the Sailing Club will invest some of this year's earnings in the provision of one or two overhead fans like those in the Wrotham. It was so hot and humid with the door closed (owing to external noise) that the sweat was literally pouring off us. The bar area was also much more crowded and noisy this year.

The streets were busy but not, in my experience, threatening. The litter was unsightly. Why doesn't the council provide extra bins on Wednesdays and weekends?

Richard

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 04:27 PM

PS - I'm sure I did it in "C" and I DID explain the time count.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 04:12 PM

Hurt and innocent expression:



Moi?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: civilservant
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 01:25 PM

It was another great festival with excellent entertainment

However one thing I feel like mentioning concerned the late night ceilidhs. I went to two of them and the entertainment was due to finish at 1pm. Very good as well. However on each occasion the bands went off around 12.35am and the audience cheered for more, as you do, and they did give 'more'. Playing until their scheduled 1pm.

I asked one of the Work crew what would happen if they didn't get an encore, even though they were contracted to work until 1pm? She said they would go back on anyway!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Crampton
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 01:14 PM

Got back yesterday - had a great time - agree that some of the campsite facilities disappeared prematurely.

I've put my photos and videos of the bands I saw at GigMemories -

http://c1.gigmemories.com/Sarah_Savoy_and_the_Francadians__10Aug09/

is one of them - links at bottom to all others.

(Incidentally, all the BFW events are listed on this site for you to add your photos and reviews. Interesting site)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,synbyn
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 12:57 PM

Well, a big thankyou to Jen, the barstaff and to everyone who turned up to the Woodshed sessions, they were gret fun and all turned out different as different sessioneers turned up (over 100 in the week) ... and we managed to get everybody on I think every day as long as they didn't mind taking turns. What was really good was the way that most people saw the session as it is and brought something for others to join in with, in keys easy to accompany, and that gradually even unaccompanied songs were backed gently and with respect for the singers- the Mike Nicholson moment set the tone on Sat, where by the end everyone was in but so gently you could still hear his words...
Special thanks too to the regulars who didn't want to lead but just to play along...

The rest of the festival was special too... so many varied acts worth seeing, and plenty of genuine folk writers too, like Dave Goulder and Anne Lister... The singarounds and hour sessions were pretty well all packed all week, even with the heat & beach weather, so something must be right! Thanks to Pete? mike/ Nep and Tom & Barbara/ Sailing Club...

And don't forget there's a special woodshed on Friday 11th September starting at 8.30.... see ya there!
Bob

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 12:55 PM

Brilliant festival and this year they got the weather right

following the precedent set above I think we are all allowed one gripe while still agreeing it was one not to be missed?

mine is that there was a duo doing the rounds playing with backing tracks! at times the tracks were so loud and comprehensive that I couldn't hear the instruments they were actually playing

surely this is not what any festival is about - keep music live

I am starting a new thread to get reaction

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Anne Lister
Date: 16 Aug 09 - 08:07 AM

We had a wonderful time and it was great to see so many old friends at the Anonyma reunion concert. Only sorry the Victorian Society came stomping in so close to our official ending time so we didn't get to chat with people and had to rush on out.
But it was scary out on the street at night.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 05:38 PM

I see melodeonboy has already got that gripe in. Considering that the elite in the other field could wee and worse with impunity until 11.40, this was not good enough. I ended the week on crutches so was not impressed at this happening.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 05:23 PM

Although the Festival was really good and well organised, some of us second class citizens in Field C lost our facilities at 9 a. m. this morning. I have made my complaint via the website. Do yours here
Email Folk Week

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 02:51 PM

Isn't that why it's called the Tart and Frig it?

More seriously, they have obviously never seen a Geordie moved to ire!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 02:15 PM

We had a grand week and it wez only the return from the Tartar Frigate on Friday neet that dampened things - The 'tarts & tit-heads' outside the Dolphin/Nep/Harpers didn't want to let us through after our gig and decided to throw their beer & fag-ends over the car - They actually tried to get into the car on two occasions and my missus stopped me getting out to remonstrate - Eventually a pimply-faced youth posing as a copper turned up and asked us if there was a problem! - We eventually got through but the car was covered in sh*te

Other than that it was my best BFW yet

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Hamish
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 12:04 PM

Had a fab couple of days, culminating in the most brilliant ceilidh with Florida last night. Great band, great tunes, great calling, superb dancing. Amongst too many highlights to mention - and that's in the mere two days I was able to be there - was the 20-ish year old girl at the end of the ceilidh saying "I so want to be you!" - a testament to my enthusiastic dancing!! :-) It's weird, but I get hoarse dancing in a way that just doesn't happen when I sing...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Chair82
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 12:01 PM

I would be happy to try helping even though I know nothing about putting a newspaper together of any kind together.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 15 Aug 09 - 10:26 AM

I wasn't very impressed by most of the showers (at the campsite) having been taken away by Friday morning (even though they'd been cold on the previous two days!). I was even less impressed, when getting up this morning, to find that they'd taken the bloody khazis away as well! Humph and harrumph!

Grumbles over, I had a great time at the festival. Thanks to all who made it happen!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Arnie
Date: 14 Aug 09 - 10:33 AM

I was absolutely blown away by Faustus playing in the marquee on Weds night. I've never seen them before and went along because Pete Morton was in the evening's line-up. Pete was as good as ever but Faustus really did provide a great end to the evening. It was pretty hot on stage and they only had one towel between the three of them, which meant that by the time it finally reached Benji Kirkpatrick you wouldn't use it to wipe your dog down! Great hilarity and even greater musicianship. Unfortunately they had a limited stock of CD's which sold like hot cakes and I never got one - will have to buy online instead.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 14 Aug 09 - 10:27 AM

I agree about when the Ceilidh Mail came out, and I wish particularly that the last issue would come out on the last day, i.e. Friday, but the contents are surely only as good as what they're given: if people don't send content for inclusion, it ain't going to go in.

But what a great week it's been - it just seems to get better and better!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 13 Aug 09 - 08:38 PM

chair82 - why dont you volunteer to help them produce it? the workforce could always use more help and the best way to fix a problem is to get involved.
jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Chair82
Date: 13 Aug 09 - 12:53 PM

I have just been informed that it was originally meant to be a Thursday issue but there won't be an issue tomorrow. I am still annoyed about the decline in standard - I hope it improves by next year.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 13 Aug 09 - 05:51 AM

There's debs in coffee houses, and teds in drainpipe trousers, and fings ain't ...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 12 Aug 09 - 10:29 PM

I agree that it is in decline mate.
No eclipse this year.
Meteor shower was deplorable.
And just as I was about to perform my second shanty on the pier, they called "time" and did the Farewell Shanty!
I can take a hint...........

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Chair82
Date: 12 Aug 09 - 05:36 PM

I've just returned from Broadstairs today. I have enjoyed myself. Another plus is that there are no security problems this year.

I just have one gripe - where was the Ceilidh Mail today please? I went in to check 3 times today and there wasn't a new copy out. This is despite the fact that they said it would come out at the weekend and on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

I am not very impressed that the Ceilidh Mail has gone from being free to being 20p. If I'm honest, the standard has gone down this year. A section was repeated twice in Monday's issue.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: DebC
Date: 12 Aug 09 - 03:57 AM

I've been having a brilliant time! Still more to come and really looking forward to the singalong with Tom and Barbara tonight.

This is really a fine festival and I am honoured to be a part of it.

Debra Cowan

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Hamish
Date: 12 Aug 09 - 03:38 AM

I'll be joining all you good people tomorrow: straight into running a looping workshop at 14.30...

...hope to see some of you there (or as The Old Curiosity Shoppe on Friday for buns; or at the Pavilion on early Friday evening or just swanning about somewhere)

The workshop will be very interactive: come and try overdubbing yourself in real time: it's fun! It's easy(/ier than you imagine)!!!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Aug 09 - 07:29 PM

Not just facing out - actually out in the street (wasn't that a song title off the Who's first album?).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 11 Aug 09 - 10:03 AM

Even the Nep, the Sailing Club and the Woodshed in full voice couldn't come near that racket - with the speakers facing outwards into the street, too!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 10 Aug 09 - 05:58 PM

Fa gawds sake dont menchun licensing & noise condishuns, ya might bring it to da notice of da Powers Dat Be, an dat cood affec da whole of Folkyweek an its frendly pubs, yot clubs an da peer!
Sa long as dey don spec me ta sing over dat hullaballoo, dats all.


And it means there will be that much more room in the Tart n Friggit etc.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 10 Aug 09 - 12:25 PM

I should have got down earlier Barbara. Pressure of work now has me back at home. I don't mind the hordes too much (tend to use teh promenade instead) but the Beach Cafe is unbelievable. How did they get a licence without a noise condition?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 10 Aug 09 - 11:54 AM

Sorry you couldn't get into the Sailing Club on Friday night, Richard. It was a brilliant start to the week! Particularly full I think because there wasn't an awful lot else on - been more comfortable since then. Hope to see you on another night.

Dead Horse, will make a note of your comment about the Shanties at the Jetty for relay to Kim after the week's over, along with other things that could be tweaked. (Wish we could 'tweak' the hordes outside the Dolphin & the Neptune, etc. And the volume of the music from the Beach cafe is just ear-splitting as you go past! Grumble, grumble, grumble...)

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 09 Aug 09 - 05:10 PM

And yet more attention paid to busses...

I swear that the public transport waited until they saw me approaching and then accelerated away...

Yes: I'd have liked to stay to shanty, but had to get away.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 09 Aug 09 - 04:33 PM

Excellent shanty sesssion on the pier.
Must send note to organizin folks ta make this session longer or have it on a weekday as well. Several audients said it wer too short & when would we be on agin? :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 09 Aug 09 - 02:01 PM

And I thoroughly enjoyed today, even without getting to a session. It was stonking hot and Bishop Gundulf's band was rocking with our leader (who denies the role) on his mighty organ, and Ken from Gong Scourers adding nicely to the big throbbing bottom (there we go again). Only one mosquito got me, and I particularly enjoyed chatting to English Jon (Jon Loomes) - who has a lovely new (to him) guitar - and to PJ.

What a shame to have to leave the sun and come home add work - and so be deprived of beer until home!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: stallion
Date: 09 Aug 09 - 04:16 AM

richard Bum - instead of the other way round mmmmmmmmmmmm glad you qualified that!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Aug 09 - 08:36 PM

Much better today. Good session in the Wrotham (but too short and rather crowded). I heard that at times the sess in the Crown was good too. Taxis up the hill are only three quid, too.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Richard Bridge with a bad mobile connection
Date: 07 Aug 09 - 08:41 PM

Not much fun so far.

Sailing club too full to get in the door.

Crown not looking promising although landlord tried to be helpful, offering to turn off million watt jukebox, but that looked as if it might offend local neanderthals. No real beer ready - promised for later today.

Wrotham Arms Jen charming, but it was a gig there not a session.

Neptune seemed blank, as I walked by - and drowned in sound from the adjacent fleshpots.

Nelson a gig not a session.

Rain - contrary to forecast.

Mosquitos obviously starving, since they fell greedily upon flesh long immured to the notorious malarial swamp mossies from the Grain peninsula.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,synbyn
Date: 07 Aug 09 - 06:46 AM

Well the forecast is changing day by day- what's the point of 5day forecasts if they're totally inaccurate? looks like a good weekend due - and lots to do in the woodshed.... see you all there!
Oh and for songsmiths, there's a tune-writing workshop on Monday am in the Rose... tips and hints gathered over the years to help make songs more memorable... should be interesting...
roll on
Bob

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Aug 09 - 06:44 PM

Bum. Raining. (instead of the other way round).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 06 Aug 09 - 06:36 PM

Agreed

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Aug 09 - 11:57 AM

Too much information!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Dave Jenkins (Ex-BG)
Date: 06 Aug 09 - 10:31 AM

Due to a nasty attack of the "squirts" (10 days now!) I have had to put back travelling to sunny Broadstairs to midweek. So, a virtual "Hello, isn't the weather grand" to all in advance, especially BG. And could someone raise a toast to Roger Hope in the Neptune. Cheers! Dave

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Aug 09 - 07:28 AM

Will there be Puff-Guin wars?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Aug 09 - 02:31 AM

Weather looking promising! I caught a glimpse of the TV out of the corner of my eye and I was SURE I saw a picture of a rain-cloud over Herne Bay and heard teh words "Up to two inches of rain in some places" - but met-check thinks dry in Broadstairs from Fri lunchtime to end Sunday at least.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 04 Aug 09 - 07:25 PM

blimey

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 04 Aug 09 - 05:50 PM

I agree Jen - the pre-folk week buzz has easily reached Sidcup and has been felt as far north as Leicester

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 03 Aug 09 - 05:50 PM

I might bring the Hagstrom this year: a treat for guitar aficionados!

Shame about my playing.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Aunty Margaret
Date: 03 Aug 09 - 05:41 PM

No dear I wont say what shop, but my dears you will see halfway up the hill at least one shop that will be closed all week. My son has offered to take me in and bring me home, so I will not have any problems to ing and fro ing, but as I said I do really feel for those with instruments etc, to tote up and down, oh well such is life as they say, I hope that the problems in the High Street have been or will be addressed this year, it was rather worrying for me to try and get through the crowd of what appeared to be non folk festival people , I trust that everyone has a lovely time and the weather is kinder.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 03 Aug 09 - 01:52 PM

aunty margaret...of course not everyone in town is happy having a festival overrun their space (silly people), but the smart unhappy ones go away for the week. however there are many that love it, or have even moved to broadstairs because of the festival and general music scene. the pre-folk week buzz has definately started...discussing the great variety of music, looking forward to seeing old friends, complaining about plastic cups,...just love it!


just a reminder that stuart pendrill and friends will be at the wrotham arms on friday night from 8:30pm. hope to see you there.

jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 03 Aug 09 - 07:32 AM

Tell us the shop Auntie, and we won't spend any money in there. Simples!

I can't remember why I was not in your session that Friday, Barbara: maybe I could not get in the door, or got frowned at when I got my mandolin out, or maybe it was guest-full.

As far as karaoke goes - Nadine, Johhny B. Goode, Bye-bye Johnny, Route 66 and Round and Around usually go OK - although I was once told I'd made a decent fist of Edwin Starr's "War". Bits of the timing of "Shakin' all Over" and "Road House Blues" are tricky.

I'm looking forward to the new sing and play session in the middle, though.

And to sorting out the bus schedules.

I have been relegated to drum this year for the side, so that KtC can leap like a stripling. Don't tell the B'Stards!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Aunty Margaret
Date: 03 Aug 09 - 03:47 AM

Getting around is hard for people during folk week, luckily I live in Margate and dont have the dreaded hill to deal with. For those that have to walk up and down the hill, is it not time something was done to help people who pay a lot of money to camp at the school, if I still had my estate car I would have helped out , but pressing years and no longer driving, well I cant and thats it.
Just as an aside whilst I was shopping on saturday, I mentioned the folk week in the shop, and I was met with a tirade from the shop owner who is to say the least anti folk week. You cant please them all.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 26 Jul 09 - 12:27 PM

Really sorry you can't make it, Rhiannon. It's not the easiest place to get around, I'll grant you. :-(

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 25 Jul 09 - 05:11 PM

Oh how I envy you going to Broadstairs. I love the festival but sadly can't manage the town anymore.

Have fun everyone.

Blessings
Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 25 Jul 09 - 04:14 PM

Perhaps Richard at a karaoke IS a darn good sing :-)

A singaround at the Sailing Club or Richard Bridge singing Living on a Prayer at a karaoke - tough choice !!

anyone got any 'celebrity' requests for the karaoke ?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 23 Jul 09 - 02:37 PM

As stated above, Richard was in error - the Singaround has been in the programme on Friday night for many years. But if Richard prefers karaoke to a darn good sing, that's his problem!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 22 Jul 09 - 06:50 PM

You might have read it here Jen - from Richard Bridge on 7th January

"As to folk - on the first Friday last year, I finished up in a karaoke bar because there was no folk anywhere at all. You can't move on to what is not there."

This could be one complaint that's been fixed

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 22 Jul 09 - 03:15 AM

I stand corrected - thanks Barbara.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 21 Jul 09 - 03:26 PM

There's plenty of folk music in the Sailing Club on Friday night - for many years the Singaround was the ONLY place anyone could make music for themselves on the Friday. It's in the programme... But there's always room for more (venues, that is, as well as IN the venues.)

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 21 Jul 09 - 12:40 PM

If anyone is getting to Broadstairs on the Friday night you don't want to miss Stuart Pendrill and friends who will be playing at The Wrotham Arms from 8:30pm to 11pm.

Stuart will do some solo songs and then will be joined by various friends ... Kerry & Mandy (as Quidnunc), Ade Dawkins (as The Rambling Boys), Rocio (they don't have a duo name but regular customer Rocio and Stu's version of Blue Cockade is the best I have ever heard), and Ade Dawkins, Dave Marshall, and Jim Brydon(as Bottles).

Last year I heard that people couldn't find any Folk Music on the first Friday night, so hopefully this will help.

After Stu's gig you might want to stop by the campsite for an acoustic session with Bob Kenward. Bob is hosting the daily Woodshed Sessions at The Wrotham Arms all week at 3pm, but we are letting him out for the first night.

Not long to go now....!

Jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 20 Jul 09 - 07:04 PM

agreed rb - lovely but early

we've had black sheep as a guest lately...now there's a nice beer (imeo)   will have to see what shepherd neame offer us over the next 3 weeks   will do what i can

jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 19 Jul 09 - 11:44 AM

Jen, I adore the Burns night special, but it is way too early for that!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: civilservant
Date: 19 Jul 09 - 01:00 AM

Thanks Jen

I will consider that as well

Simon

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 18 Jul 09 - 08:13 PM

richard, may be a little early but i will enquire - the late red is (imeo) the best sheps seasonal ale.

simon, you might want to contact the folk week shop if not already sorted - they often have drop-ins at the start of the week.
jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: civilservant
Date: 18 Jul 09 - 01:15 PM

Anyone after accomodation?

I thought I would use this thread to mention that I have paid and booked into double room accommodation (for two people) for six nights in a B&B near the sea front from Sunday 9 August.

However a change in personal circumstances means I shall be staying elsewhere in the town during the festival. I paid £70 a night. As I am not guaranteed a refund on all of this would anyone like to make me an offer for the booking? I'm not after making more money than I actually paid which is £420. Just hoping to recoup as much as possible from what I have paid for.

Will suit a couple or a single person who likes a large bed.

Please PM if you are interested.

Regards Simon

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 07:34 PM

Will the Late Red be available by then?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 05:04 PM

nice write-up here - efestivals site

and warm and personal thanks to Kim for all she has done - in case I forget in the excitement - may not have agreed with everything but thanks for the opportunities

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 10 Jul 09 - 03:05 PM

a porter or dark mild would be nice Jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 10 Jul 09 - 04:14 AM

well...a little limited since we are a sheps house...but whats your poison?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 09 Jul 09 - 04:00 PM

Good move Jen - anything special in mind? - do you do requests?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 08 Jul 09 - 02:00 PM

...yikes i better buy some beer

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 05 Jul 09 - 05:25 PM

33 days to go and counting .......

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:31 PM

the folk week program is now available to buy for a mere £3.50 at many local outlets including the wrotham arms

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 11 Jun 09 - 03:16 PM

refresh the other Broadstairs thread

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 04 Jun 09 - 07:20 AM

here's a link to the wrotham roots festival...
WRF

jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: DebC
Date: 05 May 09 - 07:56 PM

I might be coming from W. Yorkshire, but still not sure about that.

Thanks for asking, John. I may be able to get a bit further south though. As I said above, I'm still looking at the logistics. If the organisers could provide me with B & B for the Monday, I could come down with another performer, but I also know that accommodations for the many artistes that will be there are scarce.

Thanks again,
Debra

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 05 May 09 - 05:31 PM

Where will you be coming in from Debra??
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: DebC
Date: 05 May 09 - 05:18 PM

Maybe totally off the mark here...but I just thought I'd ask:

I am performing at Broadstairs on the Tuesday and Wednesday. Would there be any kind souls that could possibly provide me with a lift on the Tuesday morning? Before I go into logistics and geography, let's see if I have any takers. I will assist with the petrol bill of course and there would be a free CD in as well.

My issue is that I only have accommodation for the Tuesday and Wednesday evening and then I am away on the Thursday. If anyone can help out

Thanks in advance,
Debra Cowan

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 05 May 09 - 02:41 PM

you can keep mentioning your August weekend here as well Jen - you're bang on subject - Broadstairs 2009

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 05 May 09 - 06:00 AM

look forward to seeing you mark...would be great to see you at our woodshed sessions - that way we can still hear you play. this'll be my last folk week in the wrotham arms, so i'm planning on being a relaxed punter in 2010!
jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Mark Addison
Date: 05 May 09 - 05:22 AM

Hi Jen...Byards Leap aren't at the Folk Week this year, but Phil and I from the band will be down as punters for the weekend. Looking forward to relaxing at the Wrotham for a change.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 05 May 09 - 04:03 AM

Thanks for the suggestions everyone, I have decided to call it WROTHAM ROOTS (thanks banjiman). I'll start another thread soon, so lets get this one back on the track of Broadstairs Folk Week, which is nothing to do with WROTHAM ROOTS ... apart from being in Broadstairs ... in August ... and with Folk music ...

So who is coming to Broadstairs Folk Week? I have seen the line-up at The Wrotham Arms and it is terrific - including - The Sally Ironmonger Trio, Tamlin, Happy Trails, Rundogrun, The Phatt B'stards, The Okee Dokee Band, The Hartley Singers, etc, etc and dont forget our daily Woodshed Sessions led by the great Bob Kenward.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 02 May 09 - 11:42 AM

"Wrotham Reprise"

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 30 Apr 09 - 04:20 PM

How about - "Broadstairs Folk Week.............End"

I'll be there tomorrow night for Norcsalordie, Jen and good luck with Blind Summat on Saturday - I look forward to meeting up again

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 09:51 PM

"The other Broadstairs festival"

"Narrowstairs"

"Ramstairs and Broadgate festival"

"Saint Peter don't you call me"

"On Route"

"Beery Walls"

"Jenghis Can and the Fizzywroths"

"Root and Jeni's What's On"

"Folkadelic"

"Armless and Legless"

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 02:46 PM

Whoops! - how about

"The Broadstairs Folk Encore"

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Banjiman
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 05:01 AM

Jen insists it's pronounced Root'em ..... but, what do I know, I live in Yorkshire!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie the oast ouse opper
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 04:55 AM

what you man like 'roffam' like what some people say in fannit?

tee hee :0)

Can't wait to get along to the wrotham during the festival, once you've dragged me out of the neptune sing... :0) x

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Banjiman
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 03:43 AM

Wrotham Roots?

(I guess it only works if you know how to pronounce "Wrotham".)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 03:35 AM

its not the thread title i am working on, its the festival title
j

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 27 Apr 09 - 04:36 PM

I'm sure that in other circumstances they would love to stay late and jam with you Paul, but at midday on Saturday they are on stage at Rochester Sweeps Festival.

Maybe you'd fancy calling in at Rochester on your way back on Sunday they are at the Two Brewers in the High Street at 12:30

How about - "Wrotham Arms Festival - August BH Weekend" for a thread title Jen?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 27 Apr 09 - 08:26 AM

thanks rafflesbear for the plug...i was planning on starting a new thread about the august bank holiday music fest at the wrotham arms....as soon as i thought of a name for it!!! any ideas?

see you friday rafflesbear, norcsalordie, banjiman and the rest of blind summat!...can't wait.

jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Banjiman
Date: 26 Apr 09 - 05:41 PM

Thanks Rafflesbear and Jen. Yes, we do know the start time, didn't know it was wrong on MySpace though. We're staying at The Wrotham on Friday night as well. Shame (in a way!) we are at Deal or we would have enjoyed Norcsalordie on Friday I'm sure (I've checked 'em on You Tube).
Wonder if they'll be hanging around for a late beer?

Wrotham August Fest looks great, shame we'll be on tour in Scotland or we might have come down for the craic.

Cheers

Paul

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 26 Apr 09 - 04:43 PM

This is a page worth keeping an eye on for anyone in striking distance of Broadstairs

Wrotham Arms

Looks like the dust will hardly settle on Folk Week before Jen presents her own Music Festival on August Bank Holiday weekend. Already booked are The Hot Rats Duo, The Sally Ironmonger Trio, Norcsalordie, Gerry McNeice, The Odd Squad and Jumbo Gumbo!!!

Nice work Jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 03:33 PM

sorry about the mix up on timing Jen - I got 21.30 from the Blind Summat Myspace website - I hope they know the right time

and yes, I think Norcsalordie on Friday and Blind Summat Saturday works well :-)

Let's see some catters down there - Jen deserves it for services to folk music

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 06:38 AM

...and for those that dont know BLIND SUMMAT! - they consist of Wendy Arrowsmith (Voice, Guitar, Accordion, Whistles, Mandolin) Joolz Cavell (Voice, Guitar, Cajon, Congas & lots of percussion), Rebekah Findlay (Voice, Fiddle, Guitar, Whistles, Accordion) and Paul Arrowsmith (Banjo, Banjola and Voice). They don't get down to these parts, south of the arctic circle very often, so please give them your support. I understand that they are also playing at Deal Folk Club on Friday but since this is a Broadstairs thread I don't need to mention that .... and anyway you would miss the amazing Norcsalordie at the Wrotham Arms on Friday!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 06:28 AM

thanks rafflesbear - please note that both norcsalordie and blind summat! will start at 8:30pm. hope to see some more catters here!
jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Broadie Boy
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 07:51 PM

http://www.broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk/?page=news

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 04:14 PM

Jen at the Wrotham Arms has a couple of events coming up for the Mayday weekend

Friday May 1st at 20.30 she has Norcsalordie
Saturday May 2nd at 21.30 is Blind Summat

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 31 Mar 09 - 03:51 AM

Now we are moving, well done

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 30 Mar 09 - 09:13 AM

Good news indeed!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 30 Mar 09 - 05:10 AM

A very good development indeed. Well done 'Ye Olde Crown' and the festival organisers.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 30 Mar 09 - 03:09 AM

That is a very positive development - so long as they include "sing" as well as "play".

Pretty well all we need now is a bus service...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 29 Mar 09 - 05:50 PM

Cut and paste from the official website -

SESSION SPACE
Posted: Friday 13th March 2009

We are delighted to announce that Ye Olde Crown in the High Street will this year open its doors to all musicians who need a place to sit and play. From midday to closing time throughout the festival the pub, which is under new management, is offering a warm welcome with promises of real ale and a large room just waiting for musicians......
This is of course in addition to the more organised sessions held lunchtimes and evenings at the Lord Nelson and the afternoon Woodshed session at the Wrotham Arms

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 01:07 PM

now ifn ya want moanin             nah i wont i said i wouldnt and i wont, well maybe a bit, or a bit more, hope no one belives in gypsy curses cos i do a good line in em          oh an they do work i can assure you, i put one on kev an is spellins gone wonky, see his last post last line , hee hee

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 10:19 AM

We wouldn't have you any other way Hoff!! :-) Good to see you last night at the Angel. It was a good evening.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 07:39 AM

I, however, am grumpy.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 07:21 AM

Dead Horse - I am NOT touchy on any subject - I merely express my views in a open and honest way (too honest for some people!). I didn't take offence at anything Banjoman said in particular - just pointed out that we had had a period of bitching and back biting and that it was time for more positive posts again. I think if you read back a little, you will find that it was Romany Man who blew his top at Banjoman and not I. He is also merely airing his views, which does not make him touchy either.

Anyway, you know my views on this subject, so there is little point in stating them again. Hope the issue with the bus gets sorted.

Kev (chilled, relaxed and looking forward to the uear ahead)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie the oast ouse opper
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 06:24 AM

I think you'll find dead horse that my dad is a champion moaner...
maybe you could run a workshop together? However, they'd have to be short, cos he'd fall asleep half way through....ha ha!

top on his list of moans:
people who call him 'santa' - if you must do it, it's father christmas...
no disabled parking near beer.
laws preventing him from combining driving with beer
'country and bloody western'
people what don't do cotswold proper
people what do longsword too slowly...
people who drink lager out of a tankard
people who drink coca cola out of tankards
the weather
us kids 'when will you lot get married??!'
the price of bread
moaning about my mum moaning at him all the time for eating all the nice bread
his knee
his other knee
and others depending on the latest government announcement about pensions/old people/bus passes/taxes etc etc

so I reckon that's a weeks worht of workshops there!

Charlotte xx

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 17 Feb 09 - 11:48 PM

Its the "hill" that all the bus "moaners" are on about.
Richard, if you tell the driver which tent you are occupying and ask him nicely, I'm sure he will oblige.
Personally, if the bus gets me from the bottom of that bloody hill to the top I shall be most happy.
Once or twice, early in the week, I can manage the walk up.
Come midweek I dread it, even after suitable liquid refreshment.
And I saw absolutely nothing in Banjomans post to take umbrage about.
He merely said that there always moaners, which is perfectly true.
He did not suggest that either you or Kev were among them.
I reckon that you, and especially Kev, are far too touchy on that subject.
The price of ale nowadays, the increase in the size of the hill, the young yobboes, the unsuitable non-folk music, the unseasonable weather which seems to me to be a case of "Global Wetting" and one hundred and one other items that I could go on about - they are my constant moans. (most of which are totally unreasonable, but I still moans cos I is gettin' old an' I likes moanin' so there!)
I shall e-mail Kim to see if I can a free weeks ticket if I host a Moaners Workshop every night in the school :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Skywalker
Date: 17 Feb 09 - 06:31 PM

Do they have hills in Broadstairs??? Whitby Folk Week, now they have real hills...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 17 Feb 09 - 06:28 PM

I really really do suggest a conversation with the organisers, RM.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 17 Feb 09 - 01:22 PM

Ill talk to cousin Bill see ifn his mini bus is viable, 14 seats all insured for hire and reward, pound a head, dont seem to bad, but ifn it dont seem folks want it then well no option but walk up that bloody hill, any one got a stenna, more important ifn he gets better offer,                   well he is a business man .

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 02:30 PM

sounds like it's up to private enterprise - ouch!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 12:58 PM

I have had a route map from stagecoach. The Thanet Loop turns off to St Peters just after the station - so is little use.

The 9 runs past the school- but it doesn't run on Sundays or after about 7 pm.

So it's up to private enterprise or the committee.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 02:48 PM

I think it would be very worth putting that up to the committee, Romany Man. The evening travel is likely to be a rush down to the town at about 7 till 8, then a quiet period then a rush back at midnight.

BTW, you know the slim young girl with bad teeth and curly hair who dances about in the pub (the Nags)? I overheard her telling someone the other day that she was "a Gipsy" - from the look of her hair I would guess Irish origin - maybe another long lost relative?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 01:38 PM

I can get a (or is it an) insured for hire, mini bus, my cousin uses it for the school run and private hire, he knows broadstairs, he knows the festival, and more importantly he knows the law, now if folk want me to pursue this line i will, he reckons that a pound a head each run only during the evening and night till about midnight, will see him ok,( but dont think he will run you if you are in his eyes too pissed,) but he will have to look at what sort of regularity would be feasable, now thats what i call progress and no red tape. Now he will have to come from bedfordshire, there must be a local if this dont work or he blanks us,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 11:18 AM

I have wasted a fair amount of time trying and failing to find exact details but it looks as if the "Thanet Loop" might be useful - but there seems to be no map showing where its stops are and the descriptions on the timetable are vague. It may turn off down St Peter's road which is OK if you are on the front field but not the back.

The "weekly rider" ticket would be good value at £8 (but I expect you would need two, since the weekend splits the week), the evening frequencies are lower, and the biggest but is that the last bus in the evening would probably be too early (and swamped by people dashing out of concerts).

I can't believe it is so hard to find out what the bus facilities are!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 10:39 AM

With respect Banjoman, it was you who termed those with suggestions for improvements "moaners".

If the festival is convinced that its own bus would not be self-financing, and would be an excessive drain on resources, how about a list of the existing public bus times and a map of the stop locations, and indeed a list of the pickup points an approximate times of the current festival minibus (officially, I think, for booked bands only), with the camping information?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: banjoman
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 08:31 AM

Romany Man - i find your response to my contribution somewhat offensive - I suggest that if that is the level you have to descend to in making a contribution to a thread, then I pity you and suggest you find your own bus to get on. I do read threads very carefully and my contribution I felt was valid and was never intended to "Stir up" anything.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 07:08 AM

They had something very like that two years ago. I must be awkward, to me that means there are only two nights with anything worth doing at the School - the two sessions.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 05:56 AM

I've just pinched this off the official Broadstairs website (link in the Original Posting)-

"This year there will be a full programme of late night events held at the school for those who want an alternative to the late night dancing at the Pavilion. These events will include a Music Hall with Lynne Heraud & Pat Turner, Mac & Dawn's famous Quiz Night, a night of Americana hosted by Trevor Stephenson, and a night of Morris Mayhem hosted by Wantsum. Plus Woodshed host Bob Kenward leaves the comfort of the Wrotham Arms to host the first session on Friday 7th, and there will be a Big Session on Thursday where you can all show off what you have learned during the week"

what do you reckon - are they listening?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 25 Jan 09 - 05:03 AM

great that would see more people happy, folk comes in all styles and genres, if you dont like one thing try another, yes a good idea lets see if it happens, banjoman, just leave the thread alone we are trying to get back on track and i think we are doing so quite well, the crap has been and gone, if you want to stir it up again do it on your own time and in another place, weve all learned lessons, you obviously have not, so get your bus and go far far away. im with mr bridge.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 02:53 PM

Thanks for all those positive comments about the singarounds - we try to please - but it's really about the people that come to them and what they contribute to them. Lots of good songs and singing, music, poems, jokes - and good listening too! Sorry we're a bit too respectable for you, Richard, but perhaps what that means is respect for those who are performing - I'm not sure.

Dead Horse made a comment a while back about deserting the singarounds for cajun music. Well, you could always get the cajun music to the singarounds - we'd love it!

But that did make me think - there aren't many 'folk' festivals where you can hear cajun, blues, gipsy swing, country, etc., all in the main mix, as it were - and they *are* all part of the folk heritage. So while we may all find styles of music that we don't much like, or even approve of being included in a 'folk' festival, I think we're lucky in getting to hear some very classy stuff that we wouldn't perhaps hear elsewhere.

Also, perhaps because Kim doesn't have all the baggage that goes with being a dyed-in-the-wool folkie, she tends to respond to listening to stuff that people send her, and booking what appeals, whether or not they are young, old, 'names' or not - that way, I've heard some people that were very new to me, some of whom I could have done without, but others that I've really enjoyed and wanted to hear more of. Thank goodness for her range of taste!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 01:23 PM

It's the Great British Spirit, isn't it? You're all standing there, ration books in hand, in a queue, under your umbrellas, and what are you doing?




























WAITING FOR A f*****g BUS!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 10:16 AM

banjoman!!!

We have just settled down again on this thread, and then you chip in!! Please read all of the posters comments - yes, we have expressed our comments, many negative, but all of us have equally finished all of our posts with what a grand effort both the organisers and stewards put into the week. Expressing your opinion is not moaning.

OK, back to the cool, laidback Broadstairs thread where we are now happy with each other :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: banjoman
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 07:27 AM

I have been following this thread and have waited till now to throw in my twopenny worth. We have been regulars at BFW as part of the Old Trout Band for 20? years playing for Hobby Horse Club, Pub Sessions, Ceilidhs and running workshops. It really is a great week and caters for most tastes. I have had a few problems at the camp site, mainly due to my being disabled, but there has always been cooperation in sorting things out. As a former Festival Organiser (albeit not on the same scale as BFW) I can understand the problems that Jo and Kim face , especially this year with the economic climate as it is. They need all the support we cam give them if we want the festival to continue.
I say well done and keep up the good work. There will always be moaners no matter what you do, I respect everyones right to express their opinion, but have a thought for those who are working to keep the music and dance alive

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 04:31 AM

they are big van sorta things that take people for money from a to b, they come in many colours and can be single or double deck large and small hope that helps rb

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 10:49 PM

And buses?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 05:58 PM

Weather from the 7 th august, is booked to be glorious sunshine all week...as for now, not so much!! X

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 05:43 PM

so, anyway, what about the weather then???!!!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 04:51 PM

Steady now this is getting almost an alright thread, yeh lets keep it up

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 03:35 PM

And with Norcsalordie now booked for six or more slots I'm quite happy too

Perhaps if the organisers are shy they could communicate regarding the various concerns via the news page on their own site

And all we have to do is refer to it as the Broadstairs Folk and Music Week and that's another one out of the way

Plus the organisers have dealt with our complaints about being called freak week by employing some real freaks to take the flak

all is well :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 12:10 PM

Well said RM. Yeah, Pax to all :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 11:51 AM

at last a form of harmony, did it really take an outsider to bring this about, thank you charlie who ever you are, i like dilli wish your son well with his fiddle playing who knows maybe if he came to some of the smaller singarounds etc he could build up his nerve, yes many teenagers with talent seem to suffer the im not going public, my mates might see me, but im sure with a bit of encouragement he will flower. as for this years festival lets start looking at how good things can be with everyone behind it, mr bridge my goodness you have been working hard on how to get drunck and where, well done. dilli , its time for pax i reckon yes pax with all, and lets get this thread back on track,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 10:30 AM

Dead Horse: I hope you'll still find time to join Jumbo Gumbo with your triangle (if we're booked again - I don't think it's confirmed yet!).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 10:03 AM

awww thanks Dead Horse, I shan't tell her, she'll get all shy...and just wait till you see her newest project...ladies cotswold done well? can it be?

I think I am going to even sing this year i did a couple of times last year and no one ran out screaming, no babies cried, so it can't all be bad :0)

people say I sound just like my mum....ooh err! x

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 09:37 AM

.....and beer!
Well done Richard. I know all the hostelries but I get very confused as to which is which, esp after visiting a couple.
I must confess to having more or less deserted the excellent Tom & Barbara sessions owing to a desire to hear cajun music, but seeeing as the only representative of that genre this year is Sarah Savoy & Francadiens, I may well return to what I consider to be my roots.
They encourage singers/players of all abilities to join in, and thats where I guess I first started singing in front of 'strangers' instead of just my morris colleagues.
As for Dillies younger sister, if she shows any more talent, I might just have to assassinate her. It aint right to have so much or it, and in a family that already posseses more than its fair share.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 07:48 AM

From a cut'n'paste (sorry about that) below, and which omits both the Yacht club and the Albion, I believe one might find some places where a session could be done.

Upstairs at the Dickens, or in the Buffaloes' room at the Neptune - provided other music downstairs is not too loud - look like possibles.

Another is the (not mentioned) Albion - could be the campsite session pub.

Could more be done with the community centre (is it?) up from the Nelson on the right? And the Pierremont Hall seems to have come and gone as a venue - was it beer licensing problems? It has a range of outbuildings that could be presed into service, but drinkers would have to shuttle to the bar by the main marquee stage.

How about a mini-singing-marquee in the allotments, with an outside bar on trestles? Or regular sessions where the shanty occasionals are, on the pier (again more beer needed, and maybe some canvas walls depending on the weather)? What about the Fort? Can nothing be done up there?

Don't I remember seeing some religious halls around? Maybe beer problems, but otherwise not much used.



So here's that pub crawl I found on the net: -

Take the train from London Victoria, Charing Cross or Waterloo East to Broadstairs, Thanet, Kent. The journey takes approximately one hour 40 minutes.

Crampton's Pub

Leave Broadstairs Station to the right and cross the road at the pedestrian crossing, where the first establishment to visit is Crampton's (formerly The Railway). It is likely that the stay will only be for a swift drink before heading 50 yards down the road, on the same side, as it is a very youth-orientated pub. This pub was built in 1865 and has recently been completely refurbished. It is named after the famous engineer Thomas Crampton, who built the nearby water tower (under the Railway Bridge and now a Museum) and worked for Great Western Railway, keeping the Railway connection alive. This is a Thorley Tavern.

The Bradstow Mill

The Bradstow Mill (another Thorley Tavern) is number two. This is a very pleasant, real ale pub during the week, although a fairly garish, loud 'yoof and chav' pub at the weekend. The pub has a Victorian exterior while the interior has been designed to look like the 15th Century Mill that stood at the rear of the building until it was demolished in the early 1900s. The interior was designed by David Cutmore. Bradstow is Anglo-Saxon for Broad Place, hence Broadstairs.

The Prince Albert

Cross the road and call in at the Prince Albert, another real ale pub which is very popular, with an Elizabethan-style gable and an elegantly painted frontage.

Ye Olde Crown

Following this establishment, cross the road to Ye Olde Crown, which is composed of three old fishing cottages. Again an old, established real ale pub, with good grub and plenty of old prints of Broadstairs in the rear bar. This pub was built in the 1830s in a mock-Tudor style, at a time when writer Charles Dickens was becoming familiar with the town. Indeed it is possible that he used the pub (probably along with most of the others in the area) while lodging in the High Street in 1837. It has been extended and refurbished over the years but still has a comfy atmosphere.

Wrotham Arms

Time for a slight detour (and some ignore this pub for that reason). Take a right turn at Rook's the Butcher's, along York Street to the Wrotham (pronounced 'rootum') Arms. This is a Shepherd Neame (known locally as Sh*t and Scream) pub, so a good drop of Spitfire can be expected. This pub is on the boundary of Broadstairs and was converted from two cottages probably around 1850.

The Charles Dickens

Double back on yourself, but before reaching Rooks, turn right at the House of Broomfield Coffee Shop, and enter a pub named after probably Broadstairs' most famous previous resident, Charles Dickens (known locally as Charlie Dicks). This is perceived to be the largest pub in Broadstairs, with the main bar downstairs and a restaurant/meeting room/bar upstairs. Excellent views around Viking Bay too. The building is around 200 years old and was famous around the late 1800s as a high class entertainment venue. This continued until the outbreak of the first world war when it became Anderson's Café. It has been a pub since the 1960s and is another Thorley Tavern.

Ballards

From here take a very short stroll along the Promenade to the Royal Albion Hotel, owned by the Marchesi Family since 1978, although the building was built in 1760. Recently the bar has been extensively refurbished, the garden has been tidied and a large decking veranda added. The bar has been renamed Ballard's, after James Ballard, a 19th Century owner who is purported to have supplied Charles Dickens with 'delicious brews and ales'.

The Rose

It is time to leave the Albion, via the front door, and turn right, crossing the road to pay a visit to The Rose. This is generally a music venue and so may not be everyone's pint of beer. This is a modern pub, built in the 1950s, replacing a pub from the 1780s of the same name but set further back from the road.

Balmoral Wine Bar

However it is no more than a spit to the next venue. This is the Balmoral Wine Bar, a very pleasant establishment and a vast improvement on its previous incarnation, Bomber's, which summed it up perfectly. It is a small venue, but has a good choice of wines. This was originally a hotel, with Gemset, the building next door being the dining rooms. It had a name change around 1990.

Barnaby Rudge

Now cross the road and head to Broadstairs' unique crossroads, with a pub on each corner. The one to try first is the garishly orange decorated Barnaby Rudge. The pub takes its name from the title of a Dickens' Novel, and has been variously, The British Tar (Sailor) and The George.

Harper's Wine Bar

Beating a hasty retreat from there, head down Harbour Street about 10 yards, to Harper's Wine Bar. A little trendy, but a good place for reading the Sunday papers.

Continue down Harbour Street, passing Broadstairs' quaint Windsor Cinema. Built in 1911, from knapped flint, it seats 100 people. A few years ago, when this Researcher visited, the projectionist offered coffees to all before the film, and then stopped the film halfway through to ask who wanted interval drinks, went up the road to a pub (that will be mentioned later), and returned with the order, prior to continuing the film. There were only 6 people in at the time though. Pass under York Gate which was built in 1538 as protection for the shipbuilding industry and was called Flint Gate. It was extensively rebuilt in 1795, and renamed York Gate, after the Duke of York.

The Pavillion

Continue down to the Pavilion, another Thorley Tavern, but thankfully this is one that Frank Thorley has rescued from disaster. Built in 1933 as a theatre on the sands, it fell into disrepair, and was bought by the local council, who couldn't staunch the money pit. Eventually Thorley took it over, cleaned it up, created an attractive garden and patio, and has actually made it a pleasant venue. It is regularly used as a music and dance venue, and boasts great views across Viking Bay.

The Tartar Frigate

Upon leaving, turn right and head down to the 17th Century Weatherboard boathouse and Custom House and visit the popular Tartar Frigate (another Thorley Tavern). This is a well established inn, having been regularly used by sailors, smugglers and Charles Dickens. Again primarily a Shepherd Neame pub, but with a lovely aspect across the harbour and the beach. It also serves beer in plastic glasses for consumption on the beach or the pier. The pub gets its name from HMS Frigate, a local ship that was built in the boatyards of Broadstairs. It was probably built in the mid 1850s. However it is known that a hostelry/boarding house had been on the site from at least the Elizabethan period.

The Neptune Halls

Having had a good quaff, it is time to stagger up Harbour Street, which is fairly steep, with narrow paths, so an awareness of traffic is essential. Pass the Olde Curiosity Shop (famed for its 30 foot well, used to store contraband during Broadstairs Smuggling era) and up to the most popular pub in Broadstairs, The 'Nep', or more correctly the Neptune's Halls. Another Shepherd Neame pub, built in the early 19th Century, it still retains many old features and has a large upstairs meeting room, home to the local Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes. This also has a good beer garden. Built in 1815, the pub has retained many of its original features. The interior is now listed.

The Dolphin

The Dolphin is just across the road from the Nep. This is very much a teen pub, and is the only pub which maintains its normal clientelle throughout the local folk festival in August, hosting events at lunchtime, but being more a teen-band pub in the evening. Looks can be deceptive, as this is reckoned to be the oldest pub in Broadstairs, dating from the 1600s. It has been extended into the next door shop, creating a strange aspect as it has its own bar. Recently refurbished.


The Lord Nelson


After having enjoyed the ale, leave and turn right, past the car park on the left to the Lord Nelson. It is noticeable that this didn't start life as a pub, and was originally a drapers. It was built in 1815. It became a pub when the local brewery in Ramsgate bought it, and named it after Lord Nelson, due to the local historical link to Waterloo and Nelson. When his body was repatriated, The Victory and the fleet was moored in the Dover Roads off Broadstairs.

Now feeling rather comfortable, there are two routes back to the station. Either take the same road route back, or alternatively take the short route. Leave the Nelson, turn left, and go through the alley into Bradstow Way, continue to the junction, and turn left up to the High Street, then right, back to Broadstairs Station. The trains from the nearest platform go to Waterloo East/Charing Cross, while crossing over the footbridge for the other platform heads to London Victoria.

The gentle stroll around Broadstairs is around 2 km and takes in sixteen hostelries, as well as a fair amount of Broadstairs' historical elements and architecture.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 07:14 AM

Hello Charlie

I am not an organiser, no, but have been going since I was little, and I do volunteer (am part of the workforce) through the week, and through the week before working on the set up. I agree with your comment that this thread was not being constructive in responding to each other hence my comment above that I would not be responding to the thread other than to discuss the forthcoming festival, not to regurgitate old ground about last years festival.

Your son sounds like my little sister! she is 17 and has so much talent, but just prefers to watch at Folk Week...hopefully they'll realise they have a talent worth sharing soon! Saying that I was exactly the same at their age!


Thanks Romany Man for being so even handed in your last post - Like I say, last year was last year, and the festival is really up against it in the current climate - so maybe once the organisers get back to everyone either personally or as a group, we can make some further feedback.

I just wonder if the pub owners who are really struggling at the moment (i think it's three shutting a week in kent at the moment or something scary like that - read it in the press) know what a potential goldmine us folkies are in folk week --- my morris side and friends alone could drink a pub dry! And that makes landlords smiley :0)

Charlotte x

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Charlie (Margate)
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 06:03 AM

I have been following this thread for some time now and I did post a comment. I did not want to get dragged into any of the arguments, I simply made a comment. As a local to the area I did not want to camp, my son wanted to so at great expense we did. I feel that I am able to comment as I have no axe to grind at all, sadly from what I can see on this thread I certainly will not be a regular.
I thank Kev the clogs (what a strange name but then most are) for his comments, and yes I can agree with some of his points. I am not to well aquainted with the organisers of Folk Week but assume that Dilli is one of them, from the comments posted by him / her there appears to be some form of antagonism from them towards anyone making any comment about the festival.
Personal attacks from any side gain nothing I can assure you all.
There have been good genuine concerns aired by all sides and I enjoyed reading them. Sadly I left early after the night of problems so am not able to make any comment on the after effects. Apart from being very scarred by it.
However I did find it hard to find a suitable venue relating to good honest folk music, i now understand that the pubs have their own agenda, so ok dont go to them, easy, but surely as the festival seems to take over the town for a week, the organsisers could input some comments to the local public houses and other venues. The amount of money generated by the festival must affect the town. I wish we had something like it where I live we need the funds in the town.
Please everyone especially Dilli and Kev stop this nasty talk and put your energies into creating a better run festival. If I have assumed too much about people I say publicly, sorry I am not used to these sites and do not feel comfortable with it. My son sees it as a laugh his comments are that on this thread people need to get into the real world and take their heads out of their collective ---- you can guess the rest, he is 18 and full of it, if you know what I mean. I wish you all well with this years festival and may well just pop in now and again, but I wont be camping again, I really dont think it is value for money, I certainly wont be going down the town at night and thats for sure, its silly camping as I dont live far away. I wish you all well and will merely be watching from the sidelines, perhaps my son will come on as a member he is a great fiddle player but will not play in front of people, I despair of him sometimes. Well thats youth.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 05:15 AM

Now thats a great idea and i am sure people would even help out in the distribution if required, its not that i dont like broady i love it, but i dont like the politics , but that aside i find i have to agree with dilli, in my opininon all GOOD, sensible, and practical ideas   should be posted and looked at, with, or by the organisers, all ideas with good amounts of support should be if possible run with, but in the real world its a logistical problem, volunteers are already pushed to the limit, but yes the pubs need to know that its folk week not karioke week i dont think enough broady goers are on mudcat, but surely this is the way the thread should be going, last year has been and gone, this year is coming, surely lessons were learned and this year will have had the probs sorted,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 04:46 AM

OOh and i wanted to add that Barbara and Tom, your sessions in the Sailing Club are what make the week for me...I loved going down and just listening - and Richard is right, great beers, great company that puts those (less fantastic at singing than yourselves) at ease to have a go themselves, great loos (so important during a folk festival when antibacterial hand gel becomes your best friend), and most of all GREAT voices.
And i'm proud to say my younger sister thinks its pretty good too, and she is a teenager and they hate EVERYTHING, so that is praise indeed.

I just wish it could go on longer, as Richard says. Has anyone thought of printing this blog, putting an explanatory letter on it, and sending it round to the Public Houses of Broady to see what reaction we get and whether they feel this would be reason enough to make their pub a venue for singing/sessioning and merriment?

Charlotte

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 04:41 AM

the 'fan of broadstairs' did sign her name ....'kathleen' at the bottom - just so you are aware Kev.

Charlotte
(who posts with both her nickname and her real name).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 03:55 AM

I'm sorry that I missed out your excellent singarounds Barbara, and sincerely apologise for doing so.

I'd like to recount something that happened about 4 or 5 years back. I had been in the 'Lord Nelson' and although the session was good, it wasn't 'lighting my fire' so to speak. No refelction on the session, nor the organisers. I decided to go and see my old mate Pete Hicks down at the Tartar Frigate as 'Slattery' were playing there. As it turned out they had just stopped and Pete was packing up. He turned to me and said 'Don't tell me you're going to start playing and singing!'. I said "Why not?". With a big smile he said "Because I'll have to get my instruments back and and join in you b***ard!!!". Needless to say that was a chanlenge that just had to be taken up. Suffice to say that a session got going and people were turning up from all over and joining in. We ended up having a fabulous time and it was one of the highlights for me. I sincerely believe that if one pub decided not to have a booked band and had an all day session going, along with a beer festival (something like 'The Swan' in Sidmouth) then that pub would make a killing.
Contrary to popular belief I really WANT to like Broadstairs as they do have some artists there that I like, and would pay to go and see, but the lack of an all day session really puts me off. It's a personal thing I know. I would volunteer to start one up if I could commit to it, but after a whole week and a bit the previous week in a certain Devon seaside town (sometimes until 3am), the voice becomes a bit fragile and wouldn't last running another one.
To the Festival organisers you are doing, and have done, great work and kept the festival alive during some difficult times and my thoughts are in no way a reflection on what you have done, so keep up the good work.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 03:50 AM

Coming back to what would, IMHO, improve Broadstairs

1. Booked music in pubs should be largely folk (ish)
2. Participative folk (ish) music should be readily available: at present demand exceeeds supply.
3. Shuttle service to campsite (likely not to be a large drain on resources, might be self-financing or better, see my posts above)
4. Safety and hygeine.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 08:21 PM

By the way, GUEST,fan of broadstairs, it is an accepted part of Mudcat, that you don't actually post as a guest, and that you post with a sensible, regular name. That way, we can refer back to you, instead of "fan of Broadstairs". Only saying what Joe woould say!!!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 08:14 PM

well, in small letters, without using bad language (please note, I did use stars in place of letters) - I hope you have a lovely time in sunny, picturesque Broadstairs during the fantastic Broadstairs Folk Week, and I am sorry that I have taken up your valuable time by spouting on about my worthless comments about a week that I spent in your part of the world last year. I must make it a New Year resolution to keep quiet, not say what I am thinking and just go through life like a total pleb and just accept what I am given (Sorry, I used capital letters there, because it was gramatically correct!!).

:-)

K

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,fan of broadstairs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:52 PM

Kev
I honestly think that your points would be better put across if you could refrain from using bad language, this generally only shows a lack of vocabulary. Nobody likes to be shouted at and as you can't shout you use Capital Letters. Your posts just say that you are a very angry person and this is not good for you and you need to calm down a bit. Yes I have read the whole thread and realise that you have made some valid points but if you could manage to behave in a civilized fashion people might listen to them more.
Personally I have been going to Broadstairs for at least 22 years now and have enjoyed every year for a different reason. I go to see bands that I have never heard of because this is a chance for you to see these bands and make up your mind wether you like them or not. I have been suprised at the variety of music that has been on offer and how often I have found something to amaze me. If the organisers were to stick to just traditional folk music I feel that the festival would lose something somehow. It would be wrong to call it a music festival because it does feature a tremendous amount of folk music and fold entertainments (morris dancing, dance workshops, singing workshops etc)which if it was just listed as a music festival people would not expect to be taking place.
I realise that there was a problem with security last year which orginated from people throwing things from outside the campsite which could not have been predicted,and the sad fact is that if people are determined to cause havoc then they will find a way to do so. I am sorry that you find this all so upsetting that you are still going on about it so late after the festival has finished and that you do not feel able to attend but I can assure you that there are plenty of people like myself who are counting the days till Broadstairs 2009.

Kathleen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:01 PM

Kampervan

Why did you pick up on my comments and not Rafflesbear's comments?

Rafflesbear, I knowyou have additional intrests in Broadstairs Folk Week, but, once again - you sum up EXACTLY what IS or ISN'T happening with regard to the very important part of this ENTIRE thread - THE ORGANISERS! They have had time to get feedback from people who have written to them. They will have had time to look at this thread (and last year's ) after being directed to it by people's comments. They must have had meetings (My event that I help organise, has a meeting on the last Thursday of every month), BUT, no reply and NO response.

Come on organisers, put your money where your moouths are and TALK to the people who are attending and paying good money towards the Festival that you are organising (NOT having a dig at your hard work - just want SOME sort of response!!!!!)))

Kev (on behalf of the disillusioned, ex, or soon to be ex, folkies of the Broadstairs Folk Week).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:47 PM

PS - Tom and Bab's sessions are great! Please keep them going!!!

For God's sake though, why can't people read a posting and then step back, think and then look at both sides of the coin!!!??? Equally (Kampervan), why can't people be bothered to read the ENTIRE list of postings before they start to add there "two penneth" and get the wrong end of the previous posting.

What WAS VERY REFRESHING was the posting of a newbie, Charlie, who I don't think has been on here before. Now, let me see - he said EVERYTHING that several of us have been saying ALL ALONG, but guess what - he didn't castigated for it!!!!

Good on ya Charlie!!!n n Well said, well set out, thanks for joining in. Looking forward to seeing you in Sidmouth!

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:40 PM

OH for F**** sake!!!! How many times do I have to say it!!! I'm not having a dig at the HARD WORK that the organisers do!!!! (I help organise my OWN event and KNOW the EFFORT that it takes!!!)

What I am getting at IS (PLEASE HEAR THIS) - is that it is NOT a FOLK FESTIVAL, but a MUSIC FESTIVAL!

ALL I am trying to get at is, IF the organisers SOLD it as A MUSIC FESTIVAL, then people would come, or not accordingly. Being billed as a FOLK FESTIVAL, is treading on the wrong side of the trade descriptions act - THAT IS ALL I AM SAYING!!!

Organisers - great, good luck to you, keep up the hard work. Why the F*** don't people read/listen to what is being said!!!???

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kampervan
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:07 PM

Wow Kevin, I think that that was a bit not called for.

Broadstairs makes a lot of people very happy every year and the organisers don't deserve that many capital letters in one posting.

Nothing is perfect and the organisers are always looking for ways to improve it, but sometimes, Yes, you do have to do a bit of work to unearth the best (in your opinion) sessions. And if the direction that this particular festival decides to take doesn't line up with your preferences then find one that does.

That's why they're all a little different from each other; thank god.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:03 PM

"there are acts there which are undoubtedly on the extreme edge of the folk genre" and "the eclectic nature of some of the acts"

I fear that those who deep in their hearts want the festival to be loved are in denial. There are some bands which with a ladder and some glasses might see folk music on the horizon.

BUT is ANYONE going to claim that the FUNKIMG BARSTEWARDS (oh how clever that name is - I thought for a moment you said something else - oh how jolly) have ANYTHING remotely to do with Folk Music? - so why are they in the programme?

I could accept that during folk week other styles of music take place in Broadstairs - it's a free country (believe that if you will) so anyone can put on alternative entertainment in the hope of picking up the non-folkies. But this is PROGRAMMED IN as part of the FOLK WEEK

I was told that the points that were sent in to the organisers were going to be circulated and discussed by the committee - so what did they think? - we don't know - the silence is deafening. No statement - nothing. Is that because they think it is their festival not ours? Is it because we are not their target audience anyway? Are we wrong to think that this festival was ever meant for the likes of us?

For me this one band sums up the frustrations of those who are complaining and until I heard their promo I was still blind to the argument of the complainers

I was the one who suggested to the people of Mudcat that they should make their views known to the organisers and now I am asking the organisers to come out from wherever they are hiding and let us know whether we are wasting our time. ORGANISERS ARE YOU THERE? Would you like to tell us of all the good things you are doing? Did anyone of you at the committee meeting agree with anything that was being said?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 05:53 PM

Err - Calm down Kevin.

Tom and Barbara's sings in the yacht club have many merits - always rammed, just a tiny bit respectable, beer cheaper than most pubs, and good, showers and the cleanest bogs in the town upstairs, but the "it's 3pm and now you must go" (not their fault) can be a little irritating.

As I say - there are not enough sings, particularly of the "all join in" type, so those sings that there are get rammed.

I sonder ifit would pay another pub to pull out of the electric band scene and go for another all day session?

How about upstairs at the Dickens (is it the Dickens? Almost on the prom?) Or that pub in the ugly 30s building on the opposite side of the main drag?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 03:48 PM

Why should we "Have to look for it"? It's a FOLK FESTIVAL (alledgedly!!!???) - We should be falling over it at every turn - just like Sidmouth et al!!!! Get a life BROADSTAIRS, YOU JUST AINT DOING IT FOR A LOT OF PEOPLE!!!!!!

If YOU are providing a FOLK FESTIVAL, then provide a FOLK FESTIVAL!!! We can get amplified bands at our local pubs (where ever that might be) every weekend!!!!!! We are paying GOOD MONEY to attend a FOLK FESTIVAL!!! You cater for the great unwashed from the surrounding area most of the year - during your "show case Festival2, surely you should be doing what it says on the can - FOLK!!!!!! ALL DAY LONG!!!! EVERYWHERE!!!!! 9.00am to 1.00am!!!! Sorry, I got confused - that's a FOLK Festival as oppossed to a MUSIC WEEK that caters for the masses!!!

(In NO WAY am I taking away the STERLING efferts madeby the organisers or the Stewards of Pubs that are working VERY hard - JUST, what are they working FOR!!! A FOLK festival of a Music Festival. There is a HUGE difference!!!!!! That is ALL that is being said here by a LOT of people!!!).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 02:30 PM

"But where else?. Pete's truly great voice only for a couple of hours each day, The Lord Nelson (if you can get in - or be arsed of course) and your place. That's it"

Oh really? What on earth have Tom and I been doing every evening for the last twenty-odd years then? I really thought that we were providing a place for anyone and everyone to have a chance of performing, although, I confess, we do have a booked artist doing half a dozen numbers in three and a half hours, as do the lunchtime singalongs in the Neptune, the music sessions in the Nelson, and the daily folk club - but primarily, all four exist for festival goers and anyone else who happens along to share our wonderful folk heritage.

So you could have "just a bit of what elsewhere offers". I'm not saying it's perfect, and there are acts there which are undoubtedly on the extreme edge of the folk genre, but there's plenty for 'real' folkies if they bother to look for it.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 20 Jan 09 - 08:35 PM

Good on you Jen at the Wrotham Arms, and more power to you. You - above all else see what the need is. What's that? Well, let's think a moment. Ah yes; there are musicians who play for Morris sides. There are the performers in the BIG TENT, who really do like to mingle and join in. They can all get that within your walls, and once again I applaud you. But where else?. Pete's truly great voice only for a couple of hours each day, The Lord Nelson (if you can get in - or be arsed of course) and your place. That's it - all the other places have booked bands, some of which may be a tad folkie. Now there's a place, which I won't name, but suffice to say that may well be a week previous that has not one band booked in the pubs (except the free celidh band every day in the car park at the rear) and welcomes musicians, singers, jugglers and dancers all day, every day, morn till early morn, in many of the establishments around said place. Not only that but there is transport there too. None of that walking up hill and down dale. Why don't I go any more to Broadstairs? Oh I just wish I could have just a bit of what elsewhere offers. But of course, I need to ask and hope. I'm still hoping after many years.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jan 09 - 07:05 PM

Is Hughie Jones getting asked down this year? He's not been for a few years.
Also Mick Groves is back on the scene and I'd like to see him come to Kent.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 20 Jan 09 - 10:31 AM

Yes wheeler st did get stopped! It was quite funny but after nuch explaining everyone knew that they weren't yobbos but in fact the amazingly talented band they really are!!
Ha ha!! It won't be the first time artists have been mistaken for someone else...working on the stall at sidmouth selling records a few years back, I had to explain to another girl working with me that the man picking up a large box of cds from the stall wasn't a thief, but was martin carthy...he he xx

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 20 Jan 09 - 09:46 AM

and to lighten the mood a bit...i heard that wheeler street were stopped by the police for loitering at the camp site...when they really were one of the highlights of the festival last year...for me anyway.

been not saying much here because i cannot comment on the campsite, being lucky enough to live in town, but i know the festival organisers are addressing the problems...

i'd like to point out that some of the pubs book music privately during the week and so the quality/genre is not the responsibility of the fest organisers. the wrotham books all through BFW up until the last friday evening and my opinion is that they've done a good job for the last 2 years i have been here, but as they say 'you cant please all the folks all the time'.

the bfw pub music starts on the saturday...which may explain why mr bridge ended up in a karaoke pub last year on the first friday...would have liked to have been a fly on the wall at that one :)

anyway - sorry that some of you will not be attending this year - but i for one am determined that it will be a brilliant week for those that do join us.

jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 20 Jan 09 - 07:50 AM

Just thought I would add that I am not going to respond any more to this thread unless specifically about this years festival :0) in order not to detract from the hard work going in to make this year a great success and a great festival. I am sure the festival organisers are working hard to take all those comments that have reached them in the office on board.

oh and Charlie - I think that the band you're referring to having packed out the wrotham arms (fab pub) was Wheeler Street, a local band from my home town of Maidstone -young energetic folk types that they are :0) I believe they have a new album launching in February this year.

Charlotte

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,guest, Charlie
Date: 20 Jan 09 - 07:36 AM

I have been pointed to mudcat by a friend from work, on looking at this thread may I make a comment, it appears to me that there are two clear cut camps here, those that think Broadstairs is a great festival, and needs nothing improving, and those that think Broadstairs needs a bit of help, between the two is a line that seems to be crossed one way then the other, I read positive comments about what happened last year on the campsite and in the pubs, and yes i was there on the top campsite with my son, when we returned we saw damage to tents, damage to two caravans, and one car had its windscreen cracked, we went to the other campsite where a brick had been thrown through a tent, various items had been stolen or damaged.
These things in my opinion were the responsibility of the organisers who provided inadequate security.
However it appears that the main cause of disquiet was the bands in the public houses etc, I personally was disapointed at the quality of music available going from pub to pub, until I found the Wrotham Arms one night, it was packed to bursting, but the music was great.
I went to the area near the Dolphin public house to be met with a wall of people that seemed intent on wrecking the town, again in my humble opinion, once through them we came upon another public house the name eludes me at present, where there were many musicians jamming away quite happily, and a very pleasant night was spent there with the likes of Mr Pip Ives and his partner Jo, as well as many more .
I have been to Broadstairs for a few years now, but sadly it does appear to be losing the edge somewhat, that is in comparison to Whitby, Sidmouth etc, will I be going this year ? possibly not having looked at the website, Whitby , yes, Sidmouth yes, I nether defend nor attack the organisers they have a very hard job to do, but it does appear that the festival is being organised for their own pleasure rather than for the entertainment of us the paying public, thats all i have to say on the matter and hope that the festival goes well . I do know how hard it is to organise such events, but it is for everyone to try and help make it a good week.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 05:22 PM

Hoff, I've been telling you this for years!!!!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 05:07 PM

Kevin, maybe if I can get a laptop and a wifi connection, I could put essential files in the boot of the Volvo and work in the mornings and Sid in the afternoons. It sounds so good!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 02:19 PM

Broadstairs Regular - Please read ALL of the posts on this thread - the reason that I am not going this year has NOTHING to do with which type of acts have been booked for THIS year, but or the reasons stated VERY clearly in many posts before on this thread and indeed, last year's thread.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,A Broadstairs Regular
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 02:05 PM

Whoever the artistic director books is down to her and what makes Broadstairs a pleasant change from nearly all of the other folk festivals is the eclectic nature of some of the acts.

The reason I stopped going to other folk festivals was seeing the same boring line ups at each one. What Kim attempts to do (very well imho) is to have an exciting line up that will appeal to both folkies and the local community who embrace it so generously. The whole town joins in, unlike I noticed at Whitby the other year when a tourist could be forgiven for wondering if anything was on at all.

Ok so you don't like one act so you're not going and another one wasn't booked so you're not going. Plenty of us are and I can't think of anywhere else I'd like to be in August

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 12:17 PM

I've got it!

We can have two festivals - one at each end of the town, and the folk performers can play one end and the rest the other. And they can have separate busses , a bit like segregation USA.

Since it's England, they can change ends at half time.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 11:55 AM

Quote from Romany Man:
Oh Kev , you are wasting your time and effort on this thread as are most of those who agree with you, myself included, sadly so many of those who started to see the light wont put their thoughts into words, and why should they, the its a great festival everything is all right, nothing happened on campsites, nothing was damaged, nothing was vandalised, security was great, we know better than you, and if you dare say anything about our beloved broadstairs we will gang up , berate you, ignore your input, ban or exclude people, bands and singers, as well as any members of the folk fraternity who dont agree with us.

Oh very dear....I'd like to point out I never said nothing happened, but perhaps that they weren't the defining moments of the festival in my opinion, and also in my opinion (which is also valid dare I even think it) that some other great things happened to make up for those things that weren't brilliant.
All this about ganging up is a bit odd?? The only kind of ganging up I'd ever do is in a pub, with beer and some good songs, round a ncie warm fire :0)
I never said you couldn't have your opinions, but was informed I am mislead and only see the positives in things (heaven forbid!) and that this was a bad thing. I didn't ever say that nothing bad had happened chaps. In fact - in one of my first posts reply I wrote about the measures being taken /that had been taken to address it.


This same theory can be applied to the music...some of it is not to my taste and some of the acts lined up this year I won't be rushing to see. That said, I am really excited about wholehearted, (traditional voices that make your spine tingle), spiers and boden, glorystrokes (folk with a twist), Faustus, and lovely local lot the Dealers etc etc...

I agree, that some acts are not to be termed 'folk' but can see that in order to make it a viable festival and one which a few landlords in the town will want to support the acts have to be more varied than the folk artists we would all LOVE. If i had my way I would have pure folky things from dawn til dusk (including that little bit inbetween when we're supposed to sleep). But the festival as it is in a town and not a more contained event like Towersey for example, has to cater to a wider audience, but I'd say given the line up that the vast majority is folk.

Just wanted to say that really. I get your point about some of it not being entirely folk, but alas, thats change for you. I think if you look at other festival line ups you've championed on here, there are definite nods to 'alternative' music :0) And while I don't like it, it doesn't mean to say others wont love it!

Charlotte xx

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Richard Bridge elsewhere on his network
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 09:20 AM

Well, starting at Fort Road, and going past Edge End Road to the Field C entrance and back to your tent I reckon is about the equivalent of going to St James Ave.

Directions from Google Maps as follows

Driving directions to St James Ave, Broadstairs CT10, UK
1.2 mi – about 5 mins
Fort RdBroadstairs, UK

1. Head northwest on Fort Rd toward Shuttle Rd 269 ft
2. Continue on Church Rd 200 ft
3. Turn left at Albion St/B2052
Continue to follow B2052 0.3 mi
4. Continue on A255/High St
Continue to follow A255 0.4 mi
5. Turn left at A255/Broadstairs Rd 0.3 mi
6. Turn right at St James Ave 427 ft

St James Ave Broadstairs CT10, UK


1 mile, 896 feet

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 08:16 AM

Guest, you are supposed to post with a recognizable name. Otherwise we don't have the chance to reply personally. :-) It's still a long way with all your Morris kit.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 06:24 AM

Sorry my calculations were wrong it is not a half mile walk.
From the corner of Albion st to the corner of edge end Rd is 0.6 of a mile or if you are comparing exactly to sidmouth then from Piermont park arena to the school entrance is .5 of a mile

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 04:29 AM

Oh Kev , you are wasting your time and effort on this thread as are most of those who agree with you, myself included, sadly so many of those who started to see the light wont put their thoughts into words, and why should they, the its a great festival everything is all right, nothing happened on campsites, nothing was damaged, nothing was vandalised, security was great, we know better than you, and if you dare say anything about our beloved broadstairs we will gang up , berate you, ignore your input, ban or exclude people, bands and singers, as well as any members of the folk fraternity who dont agree with us.
if people were to vote with their feet and more came onto the thread to speak about their views good or bad , perhaps things would change, sadly i doubt it, comments on this thread are from people who have the right to free speech, but sadly it seems not in their back yard of broadstairs. Kev you aint going i aint goin i know of many people who aint goin but they are not on mudcat, will it change things , no of course not, its a crying shame that such a venue is coming under such a spotlight , it has the potential to be a great festival if only the organisers would get off their high horse and see . sadly it will never happen. as a minor point how many other festivals come under this spotlight , i have not seen many, i know it was not all bad, parts were bad ie bands etc, most venues were like a normal pub night anywhere, apart from one or two, and it was every night,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 03:59 AM

RB sorry ol chap slip of the finger, im always in troublle for that.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 06:13 PM

Well that for me, just about sums it up!!! A Folk Festival booking an act that would be better served in a naff working man's club on a December Saturday night!!!!

If I actually PAID for a season ticket for the week, I would be wanting my money back!!!

I'm sure that the youngsters, especially the drunken louts that inhabit Dolphin Corner for a large part of the week will LOVE them!!! No problem, if that is what you want for the week, then absolutely fine with me, just don't market it as a Folk Festival, whilst groups such as Norcsalordie - fine, young, talented Folk Artists, get the cold shoulder after performing to packed pubs last year, and left to go elsewhere where will be appreciated.

Long live freedom of choice, long live free speach, but PLEASE, start being honest with the customers and call it what is - A Festival of Music and not a Folk Week.

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 05:33 PM

I'v had a quick look as the guest list so far and there does appear to be some folkmusic. Whether it will get into the pubs I wait to see.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 05:24 PM

I might or might not agree with you Raffelsbear - but I am NOT loading Realplayer again. I made that mistake on a different machine some years ago and the amount of spyware and crap and the way it hooked itself in to play eveything - Yecch!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 03:58 PM

OK - Look at my postings above (hey - no longer Guest - did you notice?)

My credentials for having a positive approach to the Festival come second only to Dillie

but I have spent some time following the Artist links on the official website and I now have to join those who are questioning the booking policy. This is just one example from many

It is not for the fainthearted but follow this link and give me one good reason why anyone organising a Folk Week should have wasted a phone call on these guys - Noddy Holder I'm with you 100% (by the way you have to get to the end of the sampler to understand that remark)

Folk Music Broadstairs Style

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 03:03 PM

Finnish? Does that mean I have to learn an ABba song?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 12:39 PM

Kev, aylesford is on my definate list, hope we can beat last year for a good time start to finnish

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 10:28 AM

Rafflesbear, we have just been wondering about you on this here thread

They were trying to work out who you are - and finally, someone has spilled the beans (not sure if he was at Otford last year, when I found out your true identity or not) - now they know.

Didn't think I'd seen Norcsalordie listed in the programme - how come (they were the only REAL set of Folk Artists that were performing last year!!!!

I'd love them to come an perform at my Aylesford Village Festival at the end of June if they are free - you'd all be welcome, and you don't need a bus either. PM me if you need further details.

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 08:27 AM

No Norcsalordie = No Rafflesbear + friends

Unless that changes we won't be going either - bus or no bus :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 17 Jan 09 - 06:58 AM

Or the allotments...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 17 Jan 09 - 06:58 AM

Pierrepoint Hall gardens, hidden under the bushes...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 17 Jan 09 - 05:58 AM

"I know a bus service would be nice but how can anyone compare a half mile walk through the town with a 2 mile uphill trek on dark country lanes with no footpath"

Half mile walk? Where do you camp - under the railway bridge?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Jan 09 - 09:51 AM

I know a bus service would be nice but how can anyone compare a half mile walk through the town with a 2 mile uphill trek on dark country lanes with no footpath

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie
Date: 15 Jan 09 - 08:42 AM

I know!!!
Its looking great this year. All this and almost nearly possibly guaranteed sunshine....result! X

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 15 Jan 09 - 07:28 AM

really not wanting to get involved in these issues but thought i'd let everyone know that the concert line-up is now on the web-site. its going to be a fantastic week of music...

broadstairs 2009 concert line up

jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 14 Jan 09 - 01:35 PM

gon quiet aint it, sadly as usual the thread gets nasty, despite positive input it has to go the wrong way cos someone takes it personal when the facts present themselves no matter what, im so glad i aint goin

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 13 Jan 09 - 11:47 AM

If anyone made it personal last year - it was YOU of all people!! I lost count of the times that I was targeted on here and out in public. (Ask others - they will back me up on this).

Dillie, as usual, you are missing the point. I suggest you start listening instead of preaching.

As for Broadstairs 2009 - I wish the organisers every success (for this year and years to come).

Best wishes Kev :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie the oast ouse opper
Date: 13 Jan 09 - 11:00 AM

terribly sorry for putting on the "smiley, smiley voice and face" Kev.
So much for not making it personal.

And actually, If you can come on here and say negative things by way of attempting to draw attention to the problems you feel are faced by the festival organisers and attendees, then I more than have the right to challenge that point, and also to add my thoughts that perhaps solutions are being worked on, and would have been easier to have been worked on had you contacted the festival office during the festival last year, or indeed after the festival ended.

my response wasn't all smiley smiley - In fact i agree with you on several points - I only chose to highlight the issues faced by the festival in that you are suggesting improvements that might not be possible if the festival is to remain cost effective for the season ticket holders who return year on year.


I have no problem with you directing your views to the organisers, and agree that you should be given free reign to say whatever you wish - I just felt I should report my view of the festival to the wider public audience that you are targeting by writing on here - some of whom may have never tried to visit the festival and may be put off by your comments. A balanced blog is surely a better one?

All the best with going to all the other wonderful festivals in the country this year Kev - I hope you do enjoy them. I think you're going to miss a great year in Broadstairs, and will hopefully another year.

I do hope that others who read this are assured that Broadstairs Folk Week is planning to be great this year - and that I would encourage people to come and check it out and make up your own minds!

Charlotte x

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Jan 09 - 04:05 PM

Dead Horse, I got that figure by googling "minibus hire". It's a company in Essex.

And I allowed running at an average 50% capacity. If you want to skew times, feel free

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 12 Jan 09 - 03:58 PM

As I've said MANY times - if Sidmouth can organise a regular "Folk Bus Service", then why can't Broadstairs!!!???? Sidmouth put it out to tender - companies responded - a company gets the tender, and "what do you know" - there is suddendly a well run, well used, well respected, regular double decker bus service between 9am and 2am the next morning.

Yet AGAIN Dillie (why can't you see this), people ARE NOT trying to bemoan or belittle the STIRLING EFFORTS of the Stewards and Organisers - you ALL do a GREAT job which is hard and thankless - HOWEVER! HOWEVER!!! - when people make a legitimate comment about problems/issues that THEY have encountered (not ones that YOU or people that YOU know have encountered), then PLEASE don't put on the "smiley, smiley voice and face" and say that Broadtsairs is such a lovely, wonderful place to be. YES, Broadstairs IS a nice town, it has got a Festival and it CAN/COULD BE a LOT BETTER. Let people have their say, either HERE, or as Rafflesbear suggested, direct to the Organisers.

Kev The Clogs

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 12 Jan 09 - 03:00 PM

To answer John Barden, Yes. The bands and their equipment are a higher priority when it comes to transport.
Richard, £500 a week for minibus hire!
Get me a dozen. We can clean up in a fortnight and spend the dosh on season tickets.
And REGULAR passengers dont exist. There are PEAK passengers who may travel regularly, but nearly all buses you see (and you see 'em if you look for 'em, Melodeonboy) are running near empty MOST of the time. Peak journeys on a route like that envisaged would be a one way traffic operating to capacity for only one or two trips, and if scheduled, would be obliged to run even if there was no call for it.
The Isle of Grain service, which you are familiar with, has standing room only at peak times, but runs empty at most other times.
Hence big gaps between vehicles during non-peak periods.
It still doesn't make ends meet without HUGE subsidies from a cash strapped local government, so how do you expect a struggling folk festival to accept it as an added expense?
I think you would have more luck in trying to convince Broadstairs Borough Council to install a tram system from camp to beach, or mebbe the fondly remembered mechanical hephalump like the one that used to exist further along the coast. At least it would be white which would appeal to the racist folk police :-)
I think you are all flogging a dead horse when it comes to improving transport - and I takes that personal, I does.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 12 Jan 09 - 01:45 PM

and no doubt so it shall remain cuz,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 04:00 PM

Please read 'that to possible' should read ' that the possible'
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 03:57 PM

I agree - every 10 minute for a bus (or minibus)is totally unreasonable. But note, the artists have a minibus as a given. What about the people who pay? Are they of a lesser status?
I would dearly love to love my local festival, but we 'lesser mortals' it would seem need to appreciate that to possible seems to be impossible. Would that it wasn't.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 12:27 PM

I don't think that a minibus shuttle or three would be that expensive.

It's fuel, insurance, and capital costs.

A week's hire on a minibus will be about £500. You'll need 5 named and agreed drivers acceptable to insurers and to the hire company - volunteers are free. A bus will do about 15 to the gallon and the round trip is not more than 5 miles, so that's fuel costs of under £2 per trip. Let's be real pessimists and assume the allocated insurance cost is going to be £200 for the week for the van.

15 seater van - running at half capacity (8 people) £1 each way for the trip, round trip revenue £16 deduct fuel cost amortise £14.

Say it runs every half hour 9 am to 2 am. Is that 36 trips? Amortise £504 per day - 7 days that's £3,500 - less hire of £500 less insurance of £200 - err - profit of between £2,500 and £3,000 per minibus for the week.

If it runs every half hour regular as clockwork people will use it. The reason they don't use existing bus services is that they have no idea whether they will turn up at all or if so when. And AFAIK you have to walk most of the way up the hill to find the bus-stop, which is by the town hall.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 12:17 PM

Dead Horse: Your knowledge of transport systems far outweighs mine, but wouldn't a minibus or two be financially feasible if they were driven by volunteer stewards and each passenger charged a reasonable amount (£1, £1.50?) for each journey? Couldn't it merely be an extension of the exisiting service which is provided for artists etc., yet raising its own revenue? I would have thought that a simple service just from the car park near the Neptune to the camp site would be a good start, and would solve the problem for most people.

I wasn't aware that there was already a fairly frequent bus service running near the camp site. I've seen the bus stops but not the buses!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie - the Broadstairs appreciation societ
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 11:16 AM

I agree with what you say about Travel and what not for Broady Deadhorse...
Even if you go to Broady during the summer when the festival isn't on, its hard to park - the loop is a great bus service that runs into and out of the town. This aside, the parking is always going to be a problem in a town so beautiful and attractive to tourists...

So - I guess that while the festival is set on a hill, and the transport into town can be a problem for some, it's ALWAYS been like that... As far I can see, Broadstairs has been on a hill for some time.
in fact, over recent years there have been some great improvements. If you explain to organisers that you are stuck for a lift - pop into the shop etc, speak to people down the pav, they will try their hardest to help you out. I steward and work in the shop and am forever sorting out buses for the less able / mummies and babies / knackered and drunken where possible....In fact, i've been struggling with my heart for the last few years and the drivers always work hard to manage the bands/lifts etc where possible...

Looking at possible expansion of this system, is unlikely to be financially viable as Deadhorse explains above -

Here's a suggestion for those who hate the idea of paying for a ticket - volunteer!!!! It's a great team, we have a grand old time of it, work hard and play hard all week. I've stewarded at most festivals over the last 8 years (since turning 18) and I'd say this is one of the best teams to be part of.

I have no written to the organisers about this - I have spoken to one of them recently about how the festival is going - and appreciate the massive task they have in making themselves marketable in a very difficult climate, but I think that the continued support of those who visit just as a 'fringe' goer and the season ticket holders, volunteers etc, will continue to come together and make this festival a great one year on year.

this comment I disagree with: (by romany man)
sadly from what i see and hear broadstairs is fast outgrowing its organisers, its no longer a week of music dance and merriment but a vast milk cow that needs feeding year on year, the way its fed is by seemingly pushing out those that have been coming for years, getting as much as possible comercially (which is ok if ploughed back in the following year) and generally providing as little as possible for those regulars for as much as possible.

1) the festival is a registered charity, where did you get this idea of the festival being some money making enterprise - it needs to make money to continue - and year on year this gets more expensive -and this will only become more difficult as the recession takes hold.
2)as the late denis manners, who died on 2nd Jan (RIP Denis) who was the founder of Towersey festival said in an interview with Derek Schofield - festivals have to roll with the times and change to remain viable. His festial had started as a tiny event with a few visitors, to being one of the largest contained site festivals there are. Still brilliant, just different.
I would say that yes, while the festival has changed, and may not appeal to those absolute traditionalists, in order to keep providing some of this, they must provide some of the wider appeal stuff.
3)The concerts last year included some really trad stuff - cara dillon, Tim Van Eyken to mention a few..the singing is still as good as it was in the neptune as it was when I was three and was made to play in the garden while my mum and dad went for a sing...the session in the Nelson is wicked...its not worse than Sidmouth etc for Sessions - but it is a different festival - and cannot carbon copy other festivals - we don't have the same pubs, the same landlords and the festival organisers can only put on what the pubs are agreed to putting on in their pubs - the Wrotham Arms is a great example of a pub providing a great atmoshpere (and beer I am reliably informed) and great service during the festival and all year round for the traddy types :0) woop!

So - All in all, I do not want to belittle comments made about the festival which do not share my positive point of view - but I do think that having worked at the festival for the last four years - you do get to recognise the massive efforts that go into making the festival what it is - and you also feel it in your aching feet at the end of a long shift - but it's not long before landing in the Neptune for a sing, or dancing with my side on the seafront, or yomping up the hill to a concert that i'm back into the swing of things, thankful that this festival, run by local people for everyone's enjoyment in a part of kent that is so beautiful is still on every second week in August.

Roll on August!!!!!!!!!
Charlotte
xxx

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 10:52 AM

Go on Dead Horse, I thought your weapon was your north and south - open it and in they all fall!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Dead Horse
Date: 10 Jan 09 - 10:21 AM

I keep hearing folks warble on about buses!
They dont come cheap y'know.
To run a service of 10 minute frequency over a route that takes at least 20 minutes to run would require THREE minibuses going at full tilt.
That is the hire of three vehs and three drivers.
This would be quite seperate from the vehs required to take bands + kit to their venues.
As Band times are more or less all the same, that means another one veh + driver at least.
Running a passenger service to the Pavillion would be a definate no no. on account of the difficulty of access, waiting, and turn around.
I am sure the police would not allow a scheduled run involving such a route.
A simple circular run, from campsite to Queens Road & return via Bandstand/trade tents would probably involve a frequency of more like 20 mins if only two vehicles were allocated, with a stand time of just 5 mins each end.
Logistics is one thing, paying for it is quite another.
Your local bus service is heavily subsidised, the camp buses are paid for by season ticket money.
There are fairly frequent bus services from Queens Rd that go by the camp site, but who uses them?
As for Security, that aint cheap either.
I baulk at paying the amount I do now, without adding another £100 to my season ticket price.
I would much rather just keep moaning about the long uphill walk, and be ready to employ my martial arts expertese (I am deadly with a house brick) :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 09 Jan 09 - 07:16 PM

:-) you two! Can I suggest both of these options to my boss?! Certain to be sacked if I did :-) Am composing my letter to organisers this weekend. Never dear Rafflesbear, I may be a little low on volume at moment, I'm just taking it all in before I have "my say" :-) Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 09 Jan 09 - 06:16 PM

Useful as a spit for roasting, inserted according the Roman (or was he Greek) author Euripedes (and you buy me a new pair).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 09 Jan 09 - 04:46 PM

inserted where rb, they would be better up the chimneys or down the mines, surely, or am i just old fashioned, national service and all that,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 09 Jan 09 - 08:54 AM

Poor bugger works for a pittance "teaching" children who would be better off hit with large Border sticks...

Or longswords

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 09 Jan 09 - 08:47 AM

disappointing that there's not more activity on this but cllr aside (thank you for your kind comments but the logic was fairly simple)there seems to be just the three of us posting at the moment

are you out there Kev and would you care to join us ? - or have you popped your clogs ? :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Cllr
Date: 09 Jan 09 - 08:25 AM

Continued from last post IN fact anybody who takes time to write to organisers in a challenging and positive way is to be congratulated.
cllr

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Cllr
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 06:51 PM

Rafflesbear,

I have never been to broadstairs but i just wanted to apllaud your approach by taking comments here and taking them to organisers in a constructive way, whatever the results in this specific case its sets a fanatastic example of not just talking about on this forum but taking action,
well done,
cllr

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 05:17 PM

I too have had communication. I was waiting for confirmation that I was free to post it here.

I agree that all those here with views on how to improve Broadstairs should email the organisers. There are three email addresses on the link provided above.



It's always a shame when good things become less good. Broadstairs has improved in one respect - more singing venues - but there are still not enough, that's why they are rammed.

I don't use the site showers, but I gather they have become a less exciting thermal cycle and sometimes provide water at a constant temperature now.

On the other hand, there used to be acoustic music in the town centre pubs, and it used to be possible to go into such pubs and start singing and playing (after checking with the landlord of course). Then there are the other worries I have mentioned above and no point in repeating myself.


But there again I bitch about Sweeps every year too. However I LOVED Deal this year.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 04:31 PM

Indeed Richard - you have it.

I have been to BFW twice - 2007 and 2008 and have really enjoyed the festival on both occasions. It suits me. Apparently there are those with Greater Expectations (get the Dickens reference? :-) )

The whole town is a kaleidoscope of music, dance, sea, sand, sun (?), history, friendship and spectacle - and then I turn to Mudcat and find out that there is another view of it and I feel sorry for those who were in the same place as me at the same time and who were so disappointed with their experience that they would not wish to go back again.

So I think that I shall try to lend a hand and see if we can approach the organisers to resolve some of the issues - no use just bitching on Mudcat. And I find that for my pains I get a lesson on what it used to be, what it's like elsewhere and where I may have got it wrong.

Nor do I understand the view that it is a cash cow. In the two years I have been to one tented event, the rest I have got for the price of the drinks I would have bought anyway and a few quid in a tin where I could just as easily have got away with a few pence if I felt really mean

The singarounds are free, the pub gigs are free, the morris is free, the bandstand is free, the prom is free, the torchlight parade is free, the camaraderie is free and I'm sure that this is not all. I do not feel that I have been ripped off - how can I ?

Really the one big thing above all was the security breakdown at the campsite and that was bad. Richard and I have written - I think anyone with an opinion should do so and quickly as I have been told that there is a committee meeting next week that will look at these issues. Let's see what comes from that

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 04:24 PM

what points didnt know bears had points, and what they get up to in the woods is up to them,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 11:17 AM

RM - I think Rafflesbear was ruffling his feathers (Do bears have feathers? How do they wipe off them what they do in the woods? Enquiring minds want to know) about the fact that I disagreed here with some of his points.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 10:57 AM

well here we go, raffles dont get so wound up, everyone has a voice and an opinion, im not a happy bunny by nature and other reasons, but im happy to see that broadstairs is being discussed and all views are welcome here, sadly from what i see and hear broadstairs is fast outgrowing its organisers, its no longer a week of music dance and merriment but a vast milk cow that needs feeding year on year, the way its fed is by seemingly pushing out those that have been coming for years, getting as much as possible comercially (which is ok if ploughed back in the following year) and generally providing as little as possible for those regulars for as much as possible. it still seems to be clinging to the, well you are not part of our apprieciation society so you dont count, attitude. i dont mean that in a derogatary way but in a constructive way. broadstairs is a lovely venue and brings much needed income to the town, sadly however there are those that really dont give a damn for those who are not part of the in crowd, be they folkies, dancers whatever, but more importantly the paying public,
rb is stating facts as many others did after last year, sadly in one particular case the respodee was slated and berated unmercifully, simply for his own opinion,
your email to jo sums up quite a few points and i wish you well with the results, however i will not be holding my breath as to the result. im really glad that points are being brought into the open and discussed a slnging match solves nothing, lets hope for some more people trying to help out and sort the problems.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 03:49 AM

Merely a matter of focussing one's fire.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 08 Jan 09 - 03:40 AM

perhaps I shouldn't have bothered

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 07:01 PM

Rafflesbear - I was not aware of the bogs - but yes, paddling in crap is wholly unacceptable.

As to folk - on the first Friday last year, I finished up in a karaoke bar because there was no folk anywhere at all. You can't move on to what is not there.

Disability drivers - if they park and camp on the end field, not the first school field, they can (as they should be permitted to) come and go as they please.

As to singarounds, maybe you have not been a Broadstairs visitor for very long. Broadstairs has never had the pub sessions that I hear so much of from Sidmouth. Every session has been closed down instanter at the end of the allotted time - until the Wrotham Arms. That has simply functioned as overflow. It is not a problem of oversuccess. It is a problem of undercapacity.

It also sounds as if you don't remember the old school sessions - where one had to get smuggled in by a friend if one was not a camper. Room after room of small crowded sessions where the booked guests were vying to outperform each other and the paying guests had to play above themselves (and did) to stay in the game.

And I'm not even a hard-core long-term Broadstairs person.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 06:37 PM

Here's my e-mail

Dear Jo

You may be aware that the Mudcat Folk Discussion Forum is currently discussing the Broadstairs Folk Week under the thread 'Broadstairs 2009' and a lot of the posting at the moment is a continuation of the fallout from the 'Broadstairs 2008' thread where quite a number of people were expressing misgivings.

I have to say that my own experience of the festival has been wholly positive and I am looking forward to going again this year. I understand that organising a festival this size is a mammoth undertaking and I sympathise with your need to sign up sponsors in very difficult economic circumstances and wish you luck

I have actively encouraged those who are complaining on the influential Mudcat website to take their grievances directly to you rather than continuing to write complaining letters to the discussion forum declaring that they will not be attending this year and putting a damper on the festival before it happens

I hope that this will help you to address their legitimate concerns and get many of these folk stalwarts back on board well before the event so that we are all able to look forward to a brilliant 2009

The main concerns as I understand them are as follows

1 - security at the campsite - although not personally affected I can see that the events of last year were totally unacceptable and that the friendly community on the campsite can only exist where there is no fear of intrusion and thuggery from any source. Could you please reassure us on this matter

2 - safety within the town at night - this is a public order problem which becomes a festival problem when it starts detering festival goers - is this one where you need to work closely with the police ?

3 - overcrowding at singaround sessions - sounds like a problem of success to me - would it be possible to run more such sessions or identify premises which would be willing to accept ad-hoc singarounds? - I reckon you would still get high numbers at the established and most popular venues - Wrotham Arms and Lord Nelson but this appears to be a big concern for many. I think we all still want the atmospheric venues so a school gym would probably not cut it

4 - the loos at the campsite clogged up and ran out of fluid well before they were maintained

5 - disabled people would like to be able to park at their camp pitch - considering the number of cars driving across the grass anyway this doesn't seem a big ask

6 - a number of people have complained that many of the bands in the pubs have been anything but folk bands. This is one where I am not sure I agree with the complainers - there are so many things going on in town that personally if I found a pub putting on music I did not like I would just move on to the next. Also alternative venues for locals not interested in folk should help distract them from worrying about the 'folkies' - however this is one of the grievances that keeps appearing

7 - a bid one is the lack of simple cheap transport from the campsite down to town and back - it appears to be a real sore - no point driving down because you won't be able to park when you get there. I know that others have made more elaborate suggestions but the simplest solution that I can think of is one vehicle constantly shuttling between the campsite and the bottom of the High Street throughout the day. Perhaps you could sell books of tickets in advance?

I am a real fan of the Broadstairs festival - it's location in a beautiful seaside town, the variety of pubs and other venues, the busking on the prom, the bandstand, the jetty, the fish and chips, the sheer number of events packed into the week - and it hurts me to read people saying they won't be going this year largely because of the issues I have outlined above. I have put faith in your ability and desire to correct many of these problems once they are communicated to you and have suggested as much to the Mudcat community. I would really appreciate your comments and plans for making 2009 safer and better so that we can persuade the doubters to give it another chance, to come along and to get the same enjoyment from it as I have

thanks for all your efforts

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 06:18 PM

Ah, so not only did you not mean that, BB, you meant nothing at all?

There must be a song about cider in there somewhere...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 04:59 PM

Simply, Richard, I hit the submit button instead of the one to take me out of the page. Yes, I know one is at the bottom of the page and the other's at the top, but me brain's not what it was...

I'm glad that someone's actually going to the powers that be with their thoughts. If they don't know how people feel, they won't make changes. They may not anyway, but at least it gives them a chance.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 01:46 PM

Feel free to use and if wishing adapt my text.

I'd have been really choked if any little toerag had damaged any of my cherished Volvos.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 01:44 PM

well done rb, im still composing a snail mail, as one of those whose caravan was damaged in the mayhem, with no come back and an expesive repair afoot (still not fixed too expensive) i think ill just get another tourer, i just hope others will follow the lead, but i think many will just sit back and let people like your good self do the donkey work, then moan if nothing goes their way. well lets hope for a sensible outcome and much participation.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 01:30 PM

I have emailed as follows:

Over at the Mudcat (www.mudcat.org) on the thread "Broadstairs 2009" suggestions are being made about how Broadstairs might be improved for 2009

Broadly they fall into three categories: -

1.        More "Folk":
(a)        Particularly in pubs - the bands put into pubs tend towards electro-midatlantic-celtic.
(b)        More participatory folk - at Sidmouth for example there are MANY song sessions and tune sessions in different venues, often on all day, each with their own acoustic style.
(c)        Adding the Wrotham Arms was good, but it was rammed beyond movement in there in 2008 - the demand is still there for more space for participatory folk music.
(d)        The campsite sessions, once the high point of the festival, seem to be failing - probably because the main schoolroom is too big and soulless, which could be improved with screens, mood lighting, and suitable cafe style table and seat layout. How about a session gazebo so that even smokers could take part (I don't smoke myself)?

2.        Security and safety:
(a)        There were apparently several nights of clockwork orange mayhem on the campsite. I didn't see it because I had left due to pressure of work.
(b)        The "main drag" is becoming a safety hazard with urban yoof threatening festivalgoers and bottling pub operators. Signage, lighting, and the occasional security personnel could assist festivalgoers to circumnavigate that area, either along the promenade or via the car parks and allotments inland, and see 3 below.

3.        The moan most frequently heard I think is the absence of a regular minibus service from defined start points. No-one would mind a fare of a quid to be picked up from near the main drag and ferried up the hill to the campsite, and down would be nice too. If Cambridge and Ely and Sidmouth can do it (sometimes free), so can Broadstairs. I'd suggest three services, one from the end of Queen's Road (every 5 minutes in peak periods), and one going the pretty way (every 10 to 15 minutes in peak periods), Nelson Place, Crow Hill, Lindenthorpe Road, Baird's Hill, Sowell St., St Peter's Road, and a third from the Wrotham Arms (every 10 to 15 minutes inpeak periods) up the back way, then all go front entrance, back entrance and round the field to the taps. The services could shrink to one from Queens Road after say 1.30 am stopping at 3 am.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 12:16 PM

the organisers e-mail addresses are shown on this page contact the organisers

Kim Headley to comment on the music/dancing and Jo Tuffs for the security, buses etc - there is even a convenient form with 'complaint' in the drop-down box. Please write - we don't want just one lone voice

Staying positive Norcsalordie are back again

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 05:22 AM

ok before this decends into the old who said what who did this or that, a very good idea is for all those concerned follow raffles idea and write to the organisers, just to see what happens, dont let this thread become a negative lets all try and make a positive move to help the organisers instead of berating people for honest personal opinions, then perhaps the machine can be guided in a multi faceted direction, it will be impossible to make any festival all things to all persons, but surely if voices of concern a raised the machine must listen. go on folks give it a try. i know many many people will not be going to broadstairs this year, but hey lets hear what they have to say before making the final decision.
Ok raffles as you say many locals think its great, thats a positive but sadly many attendees dont, thats a negative , both side have to be looked at and understood, the glass is not always half full as it can also be half empty, thats a fact. the old well nothing happened to me, therefore all is well with the world is just one factor, things did happen in the negative so thats the balance. i dont think anyone is deliberatly slagging broadstairs , but as you say writing to the organisers is a very good start.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 02:05 AM

I don't know why you think I'm not listening

I said I was lucky - I certainly wouldm't have wanted to be involved in the unpleasantness but there were people, myself included, who had a great, incident-free festival

I'll ask again - have you written to the organisers about your experiences and have you had replies? I can't write to them because I have nothing to write about other than to say it was great

Also if you want to understand further the feelings and concerns of some locals then google daveandchrisuk - you will also find locals who think it's great

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 07:45 PM

sadly already no ones listening, perhaps the old you talk i listen but wont hear, syndrome is in effect, the fact that people are talking about last year is because this year has not happened yet. however to say that you missed the trouble, and people went home due to the bad weather, ok yes perhaps so, but again i can only speak for myself when i sais i knew many people who went home due to the two nights of trouble from outsiders on the campsite. not went home due to bad weather, bands are booked for this year, maybe so but are they following the same pattern as last years, for example one band even said well as its folk week we will sing a folk song we learned, sorry, only one song. the landlord being bottled was just an asside not an issue, no one has control over yobbish behaviour and we all know that,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 05:51 PM

Er - what did you mean?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 11:49 AM

Sorry, didn't mean to do that!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 11:48 AM

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 09:51 AM

"It would appear that there are issues that need addressing but that doesn't mean that the whole festival is flawed"

Quite!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie - of the broadstairs appreciation soc
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 09:26 AM

Hello again

just wondering why you are still all talking about last year and regurgitating your misgivings from the last festival instead of in fact suggesting improvements or being positive in a way such as other posters on here...I agree some things could be improved, (security WAS improved by the end of the week) but talking about how one local fool bottled a landlord in the context of the festival etc is a bit wide of the mark.

The fesitvals organisers do listen and I can prove it - we have loads of bands coming to play this year (yet to be announced to the general public) that the paying customers and the general public requested during/before/after the festival last year. Improvements will be made where possible - of course they will.

there is some really positive news about the festival this year such as the fact that Spiers and Boden and Glorystrokes are booked to play, and also the fact that i have booked a whole week of glorious sunshine via the internet shopping site 'sunbay' so we're guaranteed sunshine all week. (that last bit might be a teensy lie)

if you really were unhappy then do stay away, but we plan to have a jolly old time of it. Some of the week last year was a little bit fraught with issues, but that is nothing on the year my tent got nicked in sidmouth, or the 'glorious' weather at 'wetby' folk week.

I do hope you have a great time at the other festivals this year, and hope to see you there, but in times like this, when everyone finds themselves in straightend circumstances, I find a bit of positivity goes a long way.

this is not to belittle your comments or in any suggest that what you have to say is not valid. If that's what you think, then fine. Each to their own. I just think there is much to be had from what is a lovely festival, in a gorgeous town in a part of Kent that is traditionally less advantaged than other areas and needs our ongoing support to make 2009 a brilliant year.



Happy new year.

Charlotte x

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 09:21 AM

I missed a lot last year obviously no trouble whatever - ok perhaps I was lucky but I would be surprised if a number of the early departures were not down to the high winds and rain - I found myself helping at least one camper to stop their tent disappearing towards Margate

There doesn't seem to me to be anything wrong in principle with the festival. Maybe with the sun shining the downsides don't seem so far down and the upsides seem higher

It would appear that there are issues that need addressing but that doesn't mean that the whole festival is flawed

Each year is an opportunity to do better than the previous year and as Barbara suggests in her post the best action is to contact the organisers - Have you done that and did you get a reply ?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 08:49 AM

Bravo Ken - you KNOW that is what I am saying now and what I was saying last year. Hopefully, my comments, your comments and increasingly, others' comments will now be looked at and listened to instead of being derided.

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 06 Jan 09 - 05:26 AM

now now children lets not get into who said what who did or didnt do that, facts are facts, broadstairs last year was a general failure as far as security, value for money,was concerned, thfts damage to property and near misses, (brick through the tent) many people went home early from the campsite i was on due to the problems on site not being addresed, the music within the pubs was not what was expected by many, the closure of the high street and the outside visiting thuggery at that end of the high street, caused untold problems, even one of the landlords was bottled, nothing to do with the organisers i know, but surely someone in the appreciation society should be looking at the things that went wrong , not the things that went right , (there must have been something, sadly i didnt find anything and was glad to go home.) the morris sides are getting fewer, the real trad music was down in the last pub on the high street but you had to walk the gauntlet of the yobs in the now closed high street and yes i can see why it was closed, but most of the thuggery was from outside visitors not festival attendeas, the stalls in the outdoor market are basically all the same, inside the tented market better, sadly again organisors are not looking at whats there for the paying public only, in my opinion whats going into the collective pocket of orgaisation, i hear mutterings at a recent council meeting the mayor is expressing concerns re the festival, in my opinion the festival is heading down the selfdestruct road, and it will become as kev has said one cash cow for a few, so please look at what happened and what is likely to happen if controls are not put into practice ,listen to what is being said by the grass roots who attend year on year, stop polishing your egos and be honest, forthright and please please get back on track, look at sidmouth, witby, etc, lets try and be constructive not get into a general slagging session.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 05 Jan 09 - 06:57 PM

Not at all Hoff - no offense taken, as didn't interpret anything you have said as personal. (Not had much to drink). Just "Here we go again" - Red Rag to a Bull time with this little Baby!!!

Kev

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Jan 09 - 06:55 PM

Drinkin again Kevin?

I don't think I was criticising you for that then was I?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 05 Jan 09 - 06:21 PM

Broadstairs Organisers - Remember me!!!? I'm the one who last year made many comments about what was not working at Broadstairs 2008!!! I.E lack of transport; lack of security; lack of "Folk"; ecess of prepacked, amplified sameness; hordes of drunken crowds and general rudeness and indifference (just to name a few) What did I get? A whole lot of negative comments from people belonging to the "Broadstairs Appreciation Society" slagging ME off and that I had no right to say them.

WELL, looking at the number of comments that have been made on THIS thread for THIS year's Festival - what do you know???? - They seem to be saying the same things that I got crucified for last year!!!!

Following on from the comment last year, of "If you don't like it, then stay away" - well, you'll be pleased to know - I'm not bothering this year(and there are strong mutterings from a number of others). I'll be lighted with Sidmouth and then catch up on my dirty washing during Broadstairs week.

Do yourselves a BIG favour and start listening to the grass roots. They don't want miracles, they just want VALUE FOR MONEY and to NOT be treated like a year on year Cash Cow!!!

Kev The Clogs (Kevin Tudor) - Proud to be saying what a lot of people are thinking!!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 05 Jan 09 - 06:04 PM

whats wrong with using the minibuses that are always on site in a more productive manner insteads of going to outside companies, will security be looked at. as i know several people who are not going this year due to the damage and headless chicken syndrome of last year.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 04 Jan 09 - 06:37 PM

I've made an enquiry with a local company - I'll let you know if anything comes back

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 04 Jan 09 - 06:08 PM

why then where the mini buses already on site last year, not used to their full potential, i did get a lift up the hill once as i remember, we chipped in the hat ithink,

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 04 Jan 09 - 04:57 PM

Then try writing to the festival office! The artistic director does drop in here occasionally, but it wouldn't really be up to her but to Jo Tuft, the overall festival director.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Jan 09 - 10:32 AM

Ideally two minibuses - one from the end of Queen's Road, and the oher going the pretty way, Nelson Place, Crow Hill, Lindenthorpe Road, Baird's Hill, Sowell St., St Peter's Road, then both go front entrance, back entrance and round the field to the taps.

But I still think that the festival itself will have the most "clout" to organise something with local bus companies or radiocab companies.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 04 Jan 09 - 07:13 AM

Sad to say, you're probably right, Kampervan!

I do think that this issue should be looked into. Surely it can't be impossible to set up something farly simple that would pay for itself.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Kampervan
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 07:17 PM

I suppose that there would be too much red tape/insurance problems/elfansafety issues for some enterprising person to spend a week with a minibus operating a dedicated shuttle service.

Call this number for a lift, £10/trip, (shared by the number of people carried). £10 each for one, £1 each for 10.

Naaahh, that's got to be illegal.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 06:36 PM

Why?

do they own buses?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 06:06 PM

Surely one should lobby the fest organisers?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 06:00 PM

Anyone who wants to lobby for a shuttle bus in folk week try this - the more that write the better the chance I reckon

Stagecoach in East Kent,
Bus Station,
St George's Lane,
Canterbury,
Kent CT1 2SY

Email: [e-mail]

if you write you might like to support the idea of a season ticket for the week for any journey on the shuttle starting or finishing at the campsite

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: The Barden of England
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 04:13 PM

There's no doubt that the walk up that hill is a complete 'Bas**rd' and the sooner a bus is put on at a slightly lesser fare than a cab - the better. Some of us are no longer 'Strapping young things'and the walk with the odd instrument or two is no longer an option. How's about it Broadstairs - there is a need - and Sidmouth, and Ely recognised it a few years back. It's a no brainer!!!!
John Barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 02:47 PM

oohhh! what happend last year?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 02:09 PM

even seamus would give up on that hill, however the vardo may well be pulled in by seamus, ifn i can find some grazing for him. hopefully a field not too far away, with better security than the campsite last year, i wonder how many people WONT be coming following last years fiasco.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: wrotham-arms-jen
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 11:41 AM

Thanks Rafflesbear and Norcsalordie. What a great night! It was wonderful to see 'non-folkies' walk in and not leave - everyone had a superb time.

If anyone has not had a chance to catch Norcsalordie they are terrific ... well worth checking out.

What a great start to 2009.

Jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 06:12 AM

Thanks Jen for a great evening last night at the Wrotham Arms, pleased to have the chance to chat. Norcsalordie were on fine form and The Islander was favourite for the night - btw it's on YouTube from when they appeared in Eltham.

Glad to hear they'll be back on May 1 - see you then !

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Proogle
Date: 17 Nov 08 - 03:08 PM

LOL! indeed DHM FOR THE WIN! WE LOVE THEM! LET THEM DANCE!!!!!!! pweeze?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 17 Nov 08 - 01:25 PM

RM - I have a plan - a horse drawn omnibus, and Seamus can eat the grass in the camping field and also fertilise it!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: romany man
Date: 17 Nov 08 - 12:13 PM

a bloody mini bus to get us up the piggin hill day after day, security that works, and bring back ded orse

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: melodeonboy
Date: 16 Nov 08 - 03:45 PM

There's a very good chance that J***o G***o will be there again!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Norcsalordie
Date: 16 Nov 08 - 03:35 PM

We thought that some of you might be interested to view our web page devoted entirely to Broadstairs Folk Week

Folk Week

from the page is a link to us on youtube at the 2008 Folk Week and although the quality of the recording might leave something to be desired we couldn't have written a better caption ourselves !

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,dillie the oast ouse opper
Date: 05 Nov 08 - 06:17 AM

yeah put wheeler street in the Pav- it would be an awesome awesome event!

I saw them at the hazlitt Theatre a couple of weeks ago, and they were fabulous

Charlotte

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Proogle
Date: 05 Nov 08 - 05:26 AM

Bring back Byards Leap at the end of the Week and Wheeler Street...but put Wheeler street on in the Pav cause the pubs were attrocious to get into when they were in them!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 09:04 PM

Look, get on BBC and see history

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Girl Friday
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 09:03 PM

Anne Lister has asked for a return booking at Orpington Friday Folk next year. Happy to oblige.I'd like to see Steve Tilston make more than the flying visit he managed this year at Broadstairs.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 11:53 AM

Is that Trio Threlfall on the wish list, or booked?

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: synbyn
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 09:55 AM

looking forward to seeing anne lister- great songwriter

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 07:29 AM

Trio Threllfall.

Al

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Fidjit
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 05:10 AM

Well say hallo to Johnny from me.

Chas

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Hamish
Date: 04 Nov 08 - 02:18 AM

Despite nobody loving a clever-dick, Deal Folk Club

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Arnie
Date: 03 Nov 08 - 05:33 PM

Well, you won't have to wait for 2009 to see Johnny Silvo in Kent, 'cos we've got him at the Friday Folk Club, Deal on 14th Nov. Further details on our website at www.dealfolkclub.co.uk (sorry, can't get the blue clicky to work)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 03 Nov 08 - 04:01 PM

WOW !! - the power of Mudcat !!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: BB
Date: 03 Nov 08 - 03:47 PM

I understand that Eric Bogle is already booked for '09, and so is Dave Goulder. Also Rosie Doonan, Anne Lister, Jerry Epstein.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 06:14 PM

Dave Goulder's booked, I think?

Kitty

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 06:00 PM

Wasn't he there the year before last?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 03:43 PM

yes please

and Eric Bogle

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 03:30 PM

Good idea.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Fidjit
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 03:21 PM

Johnny Silvo

Chas

Subject: RE: Broadstairs 2009
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 02:19 PM

Yes, that does look a bit not next year.

Can we start a wish list? I'm betting that Eliza C may be a bit busy, so can we have "Martin and Friends"? I bet you'd get a pile of luminaries to turn out and work with him on that?

Bluehorses and the Welsh fiddle goddess Liz Prendergast were having a year off, so August 2008 would be good for a reunion gig.

And she and Jon Loomes could have a cider-drinking contest - and oh, yes, I can put up with any amount of gigs from him...

She's prettier than he is though!

For some blues, there is probably no white man playing better than Kris Dollimore at the moment.

Maybe the technically best female singer of folk songs is June Tabor.

Any more bright ideas?

Subject: Broadstairs 2009
From: GUEST,Norcsalordie
Date: 02 Nov 08 - 09:48 AM

Thought we'd like to grab pole position in this prestigious thread !

The Broadstairs folk week website now says 2009 - and although much of the content looks remarkably like 2008 :-) it's nice to see the first stirrings - good luck to you and your band of elves Kim, you've got a lot of hard slog in front of you! We had a great time this year despite the weather and we are really looking forward to coming back in August when a little more sun and a little less wind and rain should make everyone feel happier

Folk week website

In the meantime on Friday January 2 we are appearing at the popular Wrotham Arms in Broadstairs - thanks for the gig Jen, we aim to set the New Year off in fine style for you

The Wrotham Arms

Norcsalordie