SIDMOUTH (UK)

Subject: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 05:39 AM

How many of my fellow 'catters are going? I'll be in the 'Bedford' most of the time looking like this :- http://www.johnbarden.co.uk/

It would be great to put some faces to names. I'll try and wear a Mudcat T Shirt on one day at least. By the way is the Monday Evening happening at the rear of the 'Anchor' ?

Hope to see you there

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: nickp
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 05:50 AM

I'll be in the other Bedford bar most evenings in the old time session.

Nick

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 06:00 AM

Those are bloody good sessions aren't they. I know a couple of banjo players who will be in there too - I'll poke my head in, as I'll only be yards away in the main bar. See you there

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: nickp
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 06:23 AM

I reckon BanjoRay will be there too.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: treewind
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 06:35 AM

Mary and I'll be there doing lots of things and hanging out in the Radway when logistics permit. See http://www.treewind.co.uk/mha/sidmouth.html for the gory details. I'm also up for meeting some more catters, so come up and say the magic password if you see us...

Anahata

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: BanjoRay
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 07:53 AM

Yup, I'll certainly be there - I might even play my fiddle (aarrghh!)
This is me.
Cheers
Ray

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: nickp
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:00 AM

And it certainly is an 'aarrgh!'

Mind you, for a real 'aarrgh' I ought to sort out a picture of me!

in the interim, this is me with the mandolin

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Dave Bryant
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:04 AM

No John, you'll be looking a lot more sozzled !

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:08 AM

nickp - So you played Lufton Manor on 2000. My youngest daughter attended there for 3 years, but had left by then. Great place isn't it? Love the picture by the way. I still think mine is more 'aaargh' than the lot. Taken at Walton Festival last year where I was running the sessions at the 'Royal Marine'

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: alanww
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:11 AM

I'll be at Sidmouth from Thursday onwards - mostly singing and/or playing my concertina at the Anchor, Swan, Bedford and Radway - but also finding time to do a bit of morris and concertina workshopping in between!

"Come fill up your glasses and let us be merry ...!"
Alan

PS to John Barden: Monday evening in the Middle Bar of the Anchor is usually "Wimmins' Night", which means that the men have to dress up as women to get a sing! Very silly indeed! Is there a ceili in the garden at the same time then? [Anyway, while I would normally dress up too, I will be at the main arena that evening, as my son is dancing in the English dancing performance!]

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Beardy
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:20 AM

I'll be there from Wednesday 30/7. Will visit most pubs at least once but the Swan most often. Also LNE every night from midnight. See you all there.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:31 AM

Alanww

I was thinking of this thread thread.cfm?threadid=60145#963489. There seems to be a Heritage FC meeting or reunion that's trying to happen, but not in the Middle Bar.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: alanww
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:33 AM

PPS I shall be using my little campervan for the first time. I intend to go onto the Cricket pitch, if possible. Anyone else done that? What does it cost can it be booked in advance? Someone told me that it only opens for campervan business on the Sunday, as they have a match on the Saturday. True?

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:45 AM

Alanww - More often than not the Cricket Ground has a match on Saturday. The Rugby Ground doesn't though, and it has lots of amenities. However I have parked my campervan on the Bedford car park (Bedford Lawns) for the week before now. They are allowed on there. It costs somewhere between £60 & £80 for the week, but you do need to be there either Friday, orearly on Staurday morning before it fills up. You can use the showers at the Cricket Ground for a small fee, or those at the Yacht Club, they're great plus a nice breakfast upstairs. Me - I'm staying in the 'Bedford' so not much sleep for me!!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: MC Fat
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:51 AM

Go and support me mate Ken (Johnson) in the Theatre Bar Sing a Rounds he's a star !!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Alexis
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 08:55 AM

I'll be at the Anchor thing on the Sunday and at the Arena thing on the Monday with Slubbing Billy's (I'll be the blondish geyser with a beard, possibly with accordion). What is the magic password Anahata ?
Alex

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: nickp
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 09:03 AM

John - yes Lufton - I seem to recall that it was insanely hot. The team's rather smaller now but we're still going. I'll be down all week but will be at La Bottine on Saturday so may not get down before closing time. Otherwise it'll be most evenings.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 09:27 AM

Alan: Rugby Club would be my favourite spot for a camper. You park it at the far end against the hedge and the parking stewards tend to keep an eye on them - during the day at least. You can get showers and breakfast in the Rugby Club too - very cheap! It used to cost £15 per week for the van but not sure how much it is now.

If anyone is parking in the centre of Sidmouth for the festival I can really recommend the Rugby Club. You can get either a daily or weekly ticket. Tends to get full towards the afternoon and the lane down to it is VERY narrow but a good place nonetheless.

ZM (not going to Sidders)

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Dave Bryant
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 10:19 AM

Wish I could make it - it's too many years since I last managed to get to Sidmouth. I can claim to be one of the people who started the Anchor Middle Bar session - Tony will back me up on that.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: treewind
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 12:23 PM

Magic Password? Only joking about that.

I'm the one with the Oakwood melodeon and the cello, amongst other things.

Anahata

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Ralphie
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 12:27 PM

Will be there for the last Thurs/Fri..On way to Dartmoor.
Possibly see some old friends in the Rad?
To play impossible tunes !
R

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 12:29 PM

And I'm the one with the banjo, English concertina and mouth.....
Mary

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Leadfingers
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 12:58 PM

Mutter Mutter Mutter Mutter Cant get to Sidmouth at all this year but
I do have three paid gigs in the week to mke up for it.And it means there will be a spare seat in the Newt.Sadly there will be two spare seats as Bill Eddy died just after Sidmouth last year.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Larkin
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 01:10 PM

I'll be there Sunday till Friday. Monday to Wednesday you can see me on stilts in various guises as Larkin'about in the Showground and you can be sure I'll be in the Bedford along with John with my Guitar and Cittern ( remember me from last year John ?) Or playing Irish stuff in the Dove or off me 'ed somewhere..................................

Martin

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Steve Benbows protege
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 01:58 PM

John, I haven't been for five years (since Len Davies died.) I used to play the washboard in the bedford and recognised you. I will definately pop in and have a good blow! if you get acosted by a young twenty something in the Bedford it will be me. My name is Pete.
See you all there!!!!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Morticia
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 02:07 PM

Pixie and I plan to be round and about....mostly in the Anchor I suspect, I'll wear my Mudcat badge so say Hi if you see us :)

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 07:34 PM

I have a house in sidmouth, about ten or fifteen minutes walk from the anchor(grin) and usually one night I have a gathering of middlebar types back to sing possibly drink a bit. I if all goes according to plan Phot and I will be running a session of sea songs on the tuesday night in the anchor and then back to my place. You can usually find me in the Anchor with quite a few mudcatters. Cllr

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 09:04 PM

John

Thank you for reminding me to update the Heritage thread, which I've now done. I'm arriving on Thursday so I can have a sing in the Middle Bar round about the time that Great Western are kicking off in the Market Square.

Apart from Monday night in the Volunteer Garden marquee I'm supposed to be co-leading a welcome chorus session there on Saturday (6-7.30). Otherwise I'll be in the Theatre Bar morning /lunchtime singarounds (I'm running 4 of them, and will be there for Ken's and Tim Edwards' too - Catters welcome).

Since Cllr warned me that his house was likely to be sold before the festival I'm staying in the Bedford so hope to see some of the musicians. It'll be late though, so I might be a bit too bleary-eyed to recognise people....

Kitty

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 09:26 PM

Sorry Kitty but the house is up for reroofing before it is sold at the rate we are going I might have it for next year (well maybe) but I will have it for reunion Cllr

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 22 Jul 03 - 09:50 PM

Cllr

That's OK. I don't exactly feel underprivileged staying at the Bedford, but it closes for February so I'll need to find somewhere for the reunion. Marlborough was OK until everyone decided to get up for breakfast at the same time and the circuit tripped and turned off all the power while I was in the shower with a head full of shampoo. These wimps who just turn up in August for the festival and play in the Bedford don't know how much fun they're missing....

It was nice that the Anchor MBS reunion coincided with the Radway musicians reunion this year. Any chance of that happening again next year? (It's a leap year of course.)

Kitty

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: fiddler
Date: 23 Jul 03 - 07:43 AM

Whilst I undestand the background to camping on the cricket or Rugger fields, you do miss the great music (and sometimes singing) sessions after LNE on the camp site.

I'll be there from this Sunday and will see most of you in the Anchor.

If you wan tto see the mugshot check the profile.

CU all soon - Hope teh weather holds.

I may even get chance to play or sing or dance this year - the intention is there any way.

Hugs all round

A

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST,Steve of lost whistles fame
Date: 23 Jul 03 - 09:00 AM

John

Got the pass to come this year for one day off the missus (Thursday!)and hope to see you at some stage in the Bedford.

Give my regards to Jan and the family.

Steve

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jul 03 - 10:49 AM

Larkin - It'll be great to see you again

Steve (Lost Whistles) - Blimey - another Lassington there. Good day to come is Thursday. Bill & Co will be around too I('m sure.

Herga Kitty - So we'll be seeing one another at Breakfast. My significant other half is staying in |Sidford. She prefers a quieter life.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 23 Jul 03 - 10:54 AM

Err - that last post as GUEST was me. So:

Larkin - It'll be great to see you again

Steve (Lost Whistles) - Blimey - another Lassington there. Good day to come is Thursday. Bill & Co will be around too I'm sure.

Herga Kitty - So we'll be seeing one another at Breakfast. My significant other half is staying in Sidford. She prefers a quieter life.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: JennyO
Date: 23 Jul 03 - 11:33 AM

What a shame I didn't know anything about Mudcat two years ago when our choir from OZ, the Solidarity Choir, sang there as part of our UK tour.

I have fond memories of most of it, but maybe not so fond memories of the intermittent downpours that turned the area around the stalls into a muddy mess.

I stuck my head into the Middle Bar session, but the person I was with (who is now an ex, thank goodness) said "Too crowded, too noisy - I'm not staying", so I let myself be dragged away.

I also missed the opportunity to see Lonnie Donegan.

Ah well, maybe I'll make it back there one year when I have money......................

Jenny

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Kevin Sheils
Date: 23 Jul 03 - 01:50 PM

John B

I thought I'd already posted but it doesn't seem to be here so apologies if I'm repeating

It was handy to see your photo 'cause I now know who you are. I usually end up late at night at the Bedford (although staying at the RY&F) so should see you. I'm only MCing one Bedford concert this year (Archie Fisher, Saturday night so will definitely say hello then. Rest of the time working elsewhere but if past history is anything to go by will end up there.

When not working I try to get to the Volunteer lunch time sessions and should be there for Kitty's Monday night session so will look out for mudcatters.

Kevin

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 24 Jul 03 - 07:24 AM

Kevin - I'll certainly be there Saturday Night - late late late night extra!!! See you there

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Phot
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 01:43 AM

I'm working over Sidders this year, but I'LL try to make as many nights in the Anchor as poss. But Tuesday night with Cllr is definatly on!

See you all there.

Chris

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 02:16 AM

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 02:26 AM

It'll be a quiet night on Tuesday then?

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 07:01 AM

sniggger snigger as quiet as it usaually is smirk grin, Cllr

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: JudeL
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 08:19 AM

Jenny O , that's a real shame you didn't make it into the anchor middle bar. A couple of your choir did. I seem to remember one chap (who I think was one of yours) joining us for the Thursday silly song session at the end of which we parade along the seafront, still singing, onto the beach and (as we do each year) end by singing in the sea (which is usually very cold). He then decided he couldn't pass up a tradition so stripped off his jeans and joined us in the water ... still wearing his leather jacket cos it was cold! I have a photograph somewhere of him standing up to his hips in the sea trying to hold his jacket above the waves....... all very silly....but fun!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 08:33 AM

The other sight of Sidmouth has to be 'The Celidh in the Ford', although of course it never happens (wink,wink,nod,dod). Nothing better than a hundred or so 'stipping the willow' in 6 inches of water. Maniacs the lot of them.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: JennyO
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 11:31 AM

JudeL, yes I think I knew some of the choir people who were in the silly song session. My bet would be that it was Miguel, our illustrious leader, and maybe some others. I think I might have even seen some photos. Any chance of seeing yours?

BTW, did you meet Rhymin' Simon - long beard, deep voice, came back with Micca's song The Hash My Father Scored, and has sung it quite a few times since.

Unfortunately my enjoyment of that tour was marred several times by the killjoy attitude of the person I was with. Thankfully we are no longer together, and I just hope I might one day get another chance to travel in more congenial company, or even by myself, so that I can do all the things I missed out on the last time - and yes, silliness is definitely on the agenda!

Jenny (poor but free)

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Phot
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 11:50 AM

Of course it'll be quiet,...I'll be wearing ear defenders!

Chris.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 11:58 AM

If people fancy coming back for a drink after Phot and I do our thing could they let me know I will be in thw anchor definatly on the Friday night (and probably a few other nights as well) Cllr
Phot I will order the chinese this time!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 02:52 PM

Cllr

I think I'll be at the Ashby-de-la-Zouch session on the Friday night, but Ken Johnson is doing the early session in the Theatre Bar on Wednesday so I could probably party in the Hills the night before.

Kitty

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 05:54 PM

We are travelling down Thurs night to beat the traffic, we hope, so will be there all week. Hello to Big John, Alan, other MBSes. As usual will try to tear myself into many pieces - singing, dancing, concerts, workshops, Middle Bar (including the swim round the 8-knot buoy - used to be 10 knots, but we were obviously too fast for them!)- but top of my list - BODHRAN CORNER in the Bedford - let's see if we can beat the record for how many borin' bodhrans in the bedford this year! What happened to the photos taken in the Bedford last year? They were to be put on Mudcat but never found them.
Can't wait to get back!
Tattie Bogle

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Phot
Date: 25 Jul 03 - 06:45 PM

Beef chow mein, and Young chow fried rice please!!

Cheers Mike!

Are you up for Thursday?

Chris

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Gervase
Date: 26 Jul 03 - 02:27 PM

Chiz! Won't be there this year while the great move is contemplated (and the workshop has its roof repaired).but we'll be there in spirit.

Jenny - I thought the Solidarity Choir was brilliant; I still play your CD to piss off more right-wing visitors! Migeul and Simon went down a storm in the Middle Bar (I'd still love to lean Miguel's rousing "The People Have Songs") and you certainly missed some treats there.

Meanwhile, to the rest of the Yellow Peril, I'll miss you, but hopefullly see a few on one of the Towersey days.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: vectis
Date: 26 Jul 03 - 07:01 PM

I'll be there Tuesday to Thursday as ever. Sea songs in the Middle Bar and a session or two. Sounds good.
Mary

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Morticia
Date: 26 Jul 03 - 07:24 PM

oooh, goodie, look forward to seeing you, Mary......will you please do the chihuahua song?

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: running.hare
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 10:46 AM

What with Guide Camp the 1st 1/2 of the week & friend comming down here second weekend looks like I'll be missing out on alot of fun sillyness, but prehaps if finances wil streach to the Deisel & a few drinks I might mannage to drive down for Thursday.... What R the rules for passing out on the backseat of your car over night???
If I do come I'll be one of that strage breed called "young" wandering round on my own possibly in a red gingam dress which our local land lady informs me isn't fashionable!!! Heading for the middle bar sounds good.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST,Anne Croucher
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 12:48 PM

I have tried to sing at the Anchor on several ocassions in the last few years but find the smoky atmosphere reduces my voice to a squeek - never could cope with cigarette smoke.

Is there singing in the open or with fresh air anywhere? - I used to do well in the garden at the Swan and in the shelter at the end of the promenade, that is between the river and the life boat building.

Anne Croucher

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 01:03 PM

Anne

You could try the Theatre Bar - we get the occasional smoker but it's not a smoky atmosphere.

Kitty

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 02:00 PM

Phot hopefully down on wednesday but I won't know till nearer the time I know the traditionl pub crawl is on, otherwise I will see you when I get there.Cllr (any other Mudcatters down early?)

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST,Anne Croucher
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 02:49 PM

Thanks Kitty

The Theatre. Is that between the croquet lawn and the Arena, on the left?

Although I have been visiting the I.F.F. for decades I have not been able to stay long since I got married.

Do they have lunchtime and evening sessions at the threatre or is it less regular?

I actually find it quite difficult to find out what goes on, other than the really big things - and I have frequently found myself at a loose end so I just find a spot and sing/play/talk to people so as not to feel I am wasting what time I have.

I will try to get there for early evening Friday 1/8 but have to be back home for Monday morning 4/8 - even then I have to throw my hat in first...

Anne Croucher

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 03:05 PM

Anne

I think you've got the location of the Theatre Bar (in the Manor Pavilion) about right.

If you're arriving on Friday, and don't want to be kippered in the Anchor, you might try the back garden of the Volunteer, for the (fringe/ unprogrammed) Ashby-de-la-Zouch folk club session.

There will be a singaround in the Theatre Bar on Saturday from noon till 2pm, and on Sunday from 10.30am until 2pm.

For the first time, there will be a marquee in the garden of the Volunteer, and John McDonald aka Maca will be running song and music sessions every afternoon from Saturday 2 August.

Find someone with a working programme to see what's on where when.

Kitty

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 03:28 PM

The Bedford's quite airy if you can get near the windows, but too many smokers for comfort sometimes. Don't just borrow a working programme, buy one, it's well worth it to know where all the official events are, hour by hour, but still doesn't include things like the Middle Bar or Bedford sessions. Also pick up the daily free newsletter for any late changes or more exact timings of concerts.
Tattie B

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 06:44 PM

"The Bedford's quite airy if you can get near the windows" - otherwise you need an oxygen mask.

I'll be there all week from Friday lunch in. I hope to run into a few of the rest of us. I'll be in the Theatre Bar anyway, from time to time, and up the Volunteer. Haven't looked at the working programme yet - I do that on the train down.

Bring your waterproofs - I suspect this is going to be a wet one again...

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Seaking
Date: 27 Jul 03 - 08:18 PM

I'll be travelling down from Felixstowe next Thursday, hopefully be set up on the campsite by late afternoon. Anything going on Thursday night? McGrath of Harlow - I've seen the forecast too, the wellies are packed!

Saw Malinky at Ely - Don't miss them..

CK

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 05:36 AM

Being an ex-smoker of over 10 years standing, it surprises me just how many musicians smoke. I've got to say I do suffer a bit after a couple of days sitting in the middle at the Bedford, but then again all of the pubs are going to be smoke filled. Did someone say that the Theatre bar was better? I'm glad to see Maca (John MacDonald) is around again - is Izzy going to be there too?

Not long now - counting down and getting 'demob' happy.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 07:56 AM

In the Theatre bar people pop out if they want a smoke. I can't recall seeing anyone smoking in a song session there. I doubt if the people who'd rather they didn't would accept smoking during the singing without protest. No spitting, no smoking.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: My guru always said
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 08:23 AM

I'm hoping to get along for a few days - probably the first weekend and most of the week depending on current circumstances.

BTW: I'll be off-line from 31st July till I can get another PC *sob*

Do not miss Malinky - they're a MUST....
Hil

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST,Anne Croucher
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 04:32 PM

I think so - it always rains when I go to Sidmouth.

All the other days can be blistering - the sand, the heat, the flies, smell of camels etc - as soon as I hit the outskirts of town the rainclouds gather for a monsoon session, I leave and the sun breaks through.

Thanks for the details of sessions I will wander around and see what the breathability is in each one.

Anne Croucher

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: vectis
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 05:47 PM

The Royal York and Faulkener is a hotel on the front near the sailing club. It is reasonably smoke free and has a singaround every night until the wee small hours.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 06:49 PM

And the bar at the York seesm to stay open a bit later than the others.

LNE - it's a hell of a trudge up and back, if you're staying down in the town, which I am - can't see myself making it. It's a shame there isn't also a non-dancing late night extra down in the town. I really miss Carinas.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 28 Jul 03 - 07:52 PM

We once re-named Sidmouth as "places" You know when the tv man says there will be mainly sunshine with rain in places. One year, 1997, I had to vist Bath during the festival i left Sidmouth in drizzling rain rain which after I got out of the valley it was brilliant sunshine all the to Avon - and back- as I decended in to valley it returned to wet and mist, the clouds like the festivsl as much as we do. Cllr

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 29 Jul 03 - 03:06 AM

That obviously wasn't the Thursday of 1997 - very very thick drizzle in the afternoon.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: vectis
Date: 29 Jul 03 - 05:32 PM

I remember the Sidmouth refugees arriving at Broadstairs one year. Their cars had mud up to the roof line and everyone sported a nice new set of webbed feet.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 29 Jul 03 - 05:35 PM

Thee's always some sunny days. If you carry a good set of waterproofs with you it seems to bring out the sun.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: alanww
Date: 29 Jul 03 - 09:13 PM

Getting excited now! Leaving tomorrow, via Ross-on-Wye, and will be arriving on Thursday lunchtime! Will be putting my little Bambi campervan in the rugby Club car park, at least until Sunday.

Looking forward to seeing everyone! And will be seen in the Anchor, Bedford, Theatre Bar, Radway, Swan, Royal York & Faulkner and Dove at various times ... might even visit the arena once!

"Come fill up your glasses and let us be merry ...!"
Alan

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 02:24 AM

I usually take the arena in at least once during the week, but only to take in the atmosphere, and maybe try a few things on the music stalls there anmd see if anything takes my fancy. I also like to take the odd concert in. The one for me this year has got to be 'Last Nights Fun' at the Ham on the last Friday. It's about time they were booked at Sidmouth. I see the weather men are saying that they might be using the word 'Hot' next week - here's hoping.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: NicP
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 08:55 AM

Can I point out that I bear no relation to the above nickp - obvious,really as he appears to actually be a musician. As usual I'll be commuting to Middle Bar with or without family depending on the day for most of the fest. Cllr and Phot - can I point out that Beky now sings Byker Hill, so I look forward to a comparison of versions ( Knowing her, probably simultaneous!)
See y'all during opening hours.
NicP

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 09:31 AM

Wouldn't miss the Arena for worlds. The combination of foreign sides and native sides are the unique thing about Sidmouth.

Or mnaybe the unqie thing is that there are a whole range of intertwining Sidmouth Festivals co-existing, and we can all put together the one that suits us.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 10:20 AM

I think you've hit it on the head McGrath, or at least for me. The purchase of a season ticket for me would be useless, as I try to see those acts that interest me, I do the sessions, and sometimes the Esplanade too. Even managed to get Alan Bell out on the sea-front about 3 years back. His hands have stopped him now I'm afraid, but what a voice. Anyway as you said I do think Sidmouth is a range of intertwining festivals, each complementing the other, and long may it be so.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Larkin
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 05:13 PM

I'm heading down from London late Sunday afternoon and have room for one maybe 2 people in my car. PM me if you want to keep me company .

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 05:34 PM

Just packing my case, won't forget the oxygen masks, though not much use without oxygen cylinders! Will also bring the words of "Just had my last cigarette" ( in my case 27 years ago) aka "Tobacco, tobacco, I hate you I do".
Weather forecast seems good, at least for the weekend.
Malinky are great, but will see them in the afternoon as I want to see Berroguetto in the evening.
See ya friday!
Tattie B

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Phot
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 06:19 PM

Just back from the 1st night of 2003, didn't make the pub crawl as I'm on duty at 07:30 tomorrow.

Good little sing , most of the usual suspects there - Tony Day, Alan White, Dave, Rosie, Barry, Andy and Mark. No, of course we didn't sing Wild Rover!! I lie like a cheap Japanese watch.

Looking forward to hearing Byker Hill sung by a toddler! set to be the highlight of the Middlebar this year - make sure you don't miss it.

Chris

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 30 Jul 03 - 06:28 PM

Phot

Well, if you did sing the Wild Rover I hope you all dutifully handed over your fivers.

If I'm not in the Anchor tomorrow evening, please send out a search party. Though it's not usually on the way to the Anchor that I get lost.....

Kitty

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Cllr
Date: 31 Jul 03 - 06:12 AM

See you lot down there im off Cllr

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 02:49 AM

Anybody there yet?

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Leadfingers
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 02:57 AM

Have fun you lot,wish I as able to get there again this year.Please drop into the Newt and give Gerry a hand sometime during the week.
Now I must drive down to Portsmouth for todays ferry trip.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 06:26 AM

I've heard that the camp site entrance is a quag mire. Probably drying up by now tho'. I shall be there from Monday night, not selling lemonade, (but checking out the competition) and generally hanging around. I will be at Dartmoor the following w/e selling lemonade tho'.

We're in for a heat wave.

Sal

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 06:31 AM

AlanWW: I'm hoping to sleep in my car in the rugby club car park too. Now I'm worried!!!

Sal

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Ralphie
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 07:02 AM

Ms Lemon...

Looking forward to a refreshing glass at Dart-I-Moor..!

Regards Ralphie

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 07:51 AM

The Rugby Club is usually fine, but it's going to be hot Ms. Lemon so make sure you've got the windows open and the curtains shut. The competition is always in the Arena showground - but I wouldn't mind a nice refreshing glass at the Rugby ground!! Although mind you the beer's not bad there too.
Leaving from Kent at about 05:00hrs tomorrow and expect to be in Sidmouth by abot 08:00 to 08:30 - - here we come!!!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST,Tattie Bogle
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 12:00 PM

How sad is this, sending messages from Sidmouth Public Library??? I had to check my emails, but in between fantastic MBS lunchtime sing and on the way to the bedford for an hour before tea with the "outlaws". Sun's coming out............................!!!
Tattie B

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: The Barden of England
Date: 01 Aug 03 - 05:18 PM

Not sad at all - - - well not a lot anyway. I'm in the starting blocks and ready for the gun to fire. See you in the Bedford --- Saturday lunchtime or before.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: running.hare
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 03:00 PM

Has Desided to head down for Thursday night *she thinks*
(well I've been camping out since Sunday, lets extend the back to basics a litte ;) )

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: vectis
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 06:50 PM

Lovely to see so many of you at Siddy. Sad that I had to leave so early to get ready for Broadstairs.
Maybe I will do a whole week one year.
Mary

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Gervase
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 01:22 PM

Managed a couple of days (for which, Mike, a thousand thanks), and it was, as usual, bloody excellent (notwithstanding the Saturday night 'care in the communicy' hour in the Middle Bar. Never knew that folk songs could get people so randy!).
Good to see so many of the usual suspects, and my voice should have recovered in time for a day trip to Towersey at the end of the month.

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: GUEST,Anne Croucher
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 03:03 PM

I managed Friday evening, all Saturday, and Sunday to about ten pm - and it never rained - must be climate change.

I sang in the Theatre bar - that was good, took my drum on the promenade, and the factor 60 sun screen, still got sunburnt, but not badly unlike some folks who were the same colour as my breakfast lobster.

The tent in the back of the Volunteer was not bad Friday and Saturday, but Sunday it was more crouded and there were people talking just as though they were sitting in front of their TVs at home - I couldn't hear any of the singers very well - and the talkers were not going to shut up for anybody. I had intended to stay to closing time, but eventually I just gave up and came home.

Anne

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Folkiedave
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 06:03 PM

Just got back 'cos I have to go to Saltburn Festival for the weekend.
The weather was great and I caught Berroguetto Uiscedwr and John K(an awesome concert), Folkestra North, Spiers and Boden and Altan. The latter arrived from New York with no luggage and no bouzouki. They borrowed clothes including a maternity smock, a instrument from one of the music shops and so on. Amazing. I felt they were just starting to get going when they ended.

Great sessions in the Bedford and an awsome one in the Anchor I think Tuesday night. Rodney Miller was out of this world. Cold Drinks party with the Smiths was great - thanks Ian.

Dave

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Phot
Date: 08 Aug 03 - 05:13 PM

Thanks to everyone for a great shanty session Tuesday evening in the Middle Bar. The collection for Sidmouth Inshore Rescue Service raised a fantastic £433.76. Thanks to everyone who donated and special thanks to Mark for his fantastic work (Shake that Bucket Mark!!!)

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Steve Benbows protege
Date: 09 Aug 03 - 04:20 PM

just finished unpacking! A thoroughly enjoyable week. It was great to see John Barden again.
my highlight of the week was Les Barker and Dan Keding.

I am having withdrawl symptoms already!!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: alanww
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 08:36 PM

Just got back. I am exhausted - I am sung out from the Middle Bar of the Anchor and my concertina is recovering from being red hot in the yacht club. A great week. I particularly enjoyed the sea songs and shanties session on Tuesday night with Mike, Chris and Derek. While I didn't get round to singing John Dead, Three Jolly Fishermen or Sons of the Sea, as I had intended, I did sing Row On and Sailor's Prayer and I had the honour of finishing it off with the Farewell Shanty.
"It is time to go now ...!"
Alan

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: alanww
Date: 11 Aug 03 - 06:21 AM

PS ... well actually it only finished off the sea songs part, as Mike and Chris sang Union Miners with some gusto as the last song ...
Alan

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: JudeL
Date: 12 Aug 03 - 12:57 PM

Although the chorus begins with the words "union miners" the title of the song is "Miner's Lifeguard" and refers to a miner's life being "like a sailor's "

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: Phot
Date: 12 Aug 03 - 02:07 PM

Just like to say, I hoped you all enjoyed yourselvs, a huge thanks to Allan WW and Derick Drosher for helping to run the bench (Steer the ship!), Mark for bottling, and everyone else who gave, sang and generally had a good time, see you at the reunion!!

Wassail!   Chris:.)

Sorry, almost forgot Mike!!!..Cheers yer mongrel, good to sing with you again!!

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: fiddler
Date: 15 Aug 03 - 08:43 AM

I like it, through all the songs and antics we never can forget 1997!

This year the problem was reversed - how the hell do you get all those folk on to site it was so wet.

Anchow was good I managed and hour a day.

CU all next year (or sooner)

Subject: RE: SIDMOUTH (UK)
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 19 Aug 03 - 06:56 AM

I was a first-timer in the Middle Bar this year, it was wonderful. On the last Friday I had to go to pitch my trailer at Dartmoor festival. Schantieman joined me there. I closed up my trailer for the evening and suggested we go to a little pub I'd found, 'down the road'. He had no idea where we were going until he saw 'Sidmouth' on a sign post after Exeter. He hasn't been to the Middle Bar for 15 years. We laughed and sang our hearts out that evening. And wasn't the moonlight beautiful on the sea that night. We had a lovely walk on the beach. I shall be back next year. Watch this space.

Sal