Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!

Subject: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 02:46 PM

Hello Chaps! I know I said I'd not come back, but w..e...ll it IS a Girlie's Duty to change her mind. ;0)

I thought you'd like to know that the organisation of Sidmouth Folk Week is up and running. The latest public meeting chaired by Eddie Upton, Tony Reed and Gordon Newton amongst others was superb.

The Town Council is donating £5,000 to the children's side of things and experienced students from Newcastle Uni. are coming down to help out. Sandra Kerr is doing The Festival Choir and John Kirkpatrick is in charge of The Festival Band. There is the 800 seater marquee down on The Ham, right by the seashore, where Show of Hands, Battlefield Band, Whapweazel, Kathryn Tickell, Bismarcks, Little Johnny England and LOADS more, with lots still to be announced. There is camping at The Bowd and Salcombe Regis, (with buses) there's the LNE up at Salcombe Regis too.

Everything is coming together in the most amazing way. The Sidmouth Herald has three pages dedicated to The Folk Week this week, ALL full of positive news. There is to be a music tent at The Ham and a Beer Tent too. The Arena, as you know, is not taking place, but I'm looking forward to sitting on the hill and watching some of you dance and sing, on the large paved area where the stage normally sits. Even Sidmouth's Loos AREN'T closing as was rumoured at one stage by EDDC, so you can all leave the pottys at home! ;0)


Both Eddie and Gordon are determined to keep the Folk Week centred in the town, which is going down extremely well with local people. Most of the 'rats' who thought they were leaving a 'sinking ship' have sold up and moved on and there is new blood coming in to the town, with support from hoteliers and shopkeepers alike. We EVEN have a new hotelier who is a Morris Man!! :0) How about that then! AND he's born in Sidmouth and so is his wife! AND they are really behind the Folk Week as are so many others. Even Mark down at Dukes Cafe, formerly The Marlborough, is having acts that are Folk Centred. The Anchor has all been painted up, with lovely new landlords, even Somerfields is being extended so you won't have to queue for hours like normal! Beautiful new lamposts along the seafront....it's just all starting to happen!

There was only ONE 'slight problem' at the meeting.....Oh SeeRed....Where are you? ;0) Friendly Giggle, Steve! ;0)

However, you'll be delighted to know that Steve has been turned into our very own 'Sidmouth Star'. Yes, SeeRed Steve has made it into The Sidmouth Herald as the most wonderful cartoon! There he is bless him, with his bow and arrow, which has 'Constructive Criticism' written all over the arrow, which he is aiming at a Sidmouth Folk Week 2005 Air Balloon which has Eddie Upton, Tony Reed, Gordon Newton and their Folk Week colleagues in.

Now Steve....you have to admit it's good! It's not nasty and it's been drawn very well. I recognised everyone. As you say elsewhere Steve, it was a very positive night all round. Eddie Upton has handed the torches, the symbols of Sidmouth Festival, to all of us to take Sidmouth forward, support it and love it again.

I think Steve, that it is very fitting for you to end up in the paper like that, as you have sort of become a bit of a Local Mascot. No other town in Great Britain has a Seered Steve, as we do, and I think it's lovely that you've been acknowledged in that way.

So...let's all make up and be friendly. That room was just buzzing with excitement about this year's First Week in August! And having just had all the Middle Bar singers and musicians down this weekend...I can't wait for it all to start and for them all to come back again. And by the way....WHO WAS THAT MAN who sang, (not sure if this is the actual title!) 'I never found my Eldorado'...all about terraced streets being his Grand Canyon. He sang it in The Anchor on Friday night, towards the end...had a long grey ponytail...(I LIKE ponytails! ;0)..) and he just belted out that song. What a singer!
What an accent..(Scottish..I LIKE Scottish accents! ;0)..) He was right inside that song, brought it alive. You were GREAT whoever you were!! Big Kiss, just for you..Mwa! ;0) :0)

I will also be very pleased for anyone else who is going anywhere else and wish you lots of enjoyment at your festivals or folk weeks too, WHEREVER they may be.   

But you just CAN'T beat Sidmouth...for we've got our SeeRed Steve!;0) ;0)
And he's going to be dancing his little cotton socks off in a few months, with a huge, happy smile on his face!

But then again....maybe......! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 02:57 PM

Woops....grammatical error...unusual for me!! ;0) NOT! That should of course read something along the lines of...the 800 seater marquee down on The Ham where Show of Hands etc.etc. WILL BE PERFORMING.

This next bit is all said with a big, soppy smile on my face and is to be read in a 'fun' voice that doesn't cause offence. Curse that political correctness....read on...it's a free country, (just.. still!)

Ooh! I also forgot the sweetest (and possibly the MOST exciting bit of the evening, depending on how you view it!! ;0)..) when the lovely lady in charge of the Morris dancing mentioned that there were now so many teams coming into the town from all over the UK and from Brittany, all of whom are coming for free btw, that if ANYONE would like to offer a MORRIS MAN a bed please feel free!!

Well! What IS a Girlie to DO!!!! ;0) ;0) Dreamy Smiley!

Roll on Sidmouth Folk Week! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

PS I behaved impeccably by the way! ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Limehouse Lizzie
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 06:19 PM

... and everyone lived happily ever after in Lizzie-land.

Pity real live is so different.

Anyone in the know knows that Sidmouth 2005 is far from the blissful paradise described by Lizzie above.

Many of the promised events and venues have still not been approved by the council and many of the plans are just that... plans... and even the best-laid plans don't always come to fruition.

Full marks for trying Lizzie but your head-in-the-clouds optimism is not shared by those of us with our feet on the ground.

Sidmouth 2005 still has the potential to go belly up.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 06:46 PM

Sidmouth Folk Week will be a good week for all of us who turn up to have a good time. Anonyomous posters can have their good time somewhere else if they want to.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: alanww
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 06:56 PM

Hi Lizzie in Beautiful Sidmouth.
Yes, I was in beautiful Sidmouth this weekend, mostly in the Anchor but a little bit in the Radway. It was lovely in the sun but let's hope it will be a bit warmer for the Folk Week!
Jim McAdam sang Eldorado on Friday night in the Anchor. He certainly has a fantastic voice.
A great weekend was had by all, both in the Anchor (unaccompanied singing) and the Radway (music), and it was a good taster for the Folk Week.
"And did those feet in ancient times ...!"
Alan

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 06:56 PM

Lizzie

It was Jim McAdams who sang El Dorado.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 01:44 AM

Would Sidmouth council be giving £5,000 towards the festival if there was going to be a problem with licensing?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 03:35 AM

Well Lizzie how come I didn't get to say hello?

There were a number of mudcat people in the Anchor on Friday (and Sat & Sun.

Was it because I was too intent on the Laughing, Drinking and Singing or were you keeping your light under the proverbial bushel?

Dave
(he of the breton cap (with badges), beard,and telescopic walking stick/trekking pole)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 03:42 AM

Well I spotted Lizzie in the Middle Bar but I didn't say hello. I will do so in August!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 03:53 AM

Is Steve H still involved?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: EagleWing
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 04:41 AM

"Sidmouth 2005 still has the potential to go belly up."

Surely that's true of every event, anywhere, that has not yet taken place?

Cropredy, for instance, is not being organised by Chris Pegg this year for the first time as far as I know. It could go belly up, but no-one is predicting that it will.

I'm with those who see the large council grant as a very good omen. (Despite being one of those asking awkward questions earlier).

Frank L.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 04:59 AM

"Is Steve H still involved?"

Wake at the back!!

NO

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: JeZeBeL
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 05:11 AM

Are there regular music sessions in Sidmouth throughout the year?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Tatterfoal
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 05:40 AM

Does anyone have the lyrics to El Dorado I agree it was wonderfully sung and I would like to learn it as well.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 05:57 AM

Regular music sessions in Sidmouth throughout the year!!!! Jez...that's WONDERFUL! I've just gone into complete raptures about that idea.Mmmmmm.....Jim McAdam ALL year round! Quick! Kidnap him!

You Middle Bar Singers are a Sassy Lot! ;0) I truly enjoyed the time I was in The Anchor.....I was easy to spot guys...I was the one who didn't know any words!!! (I'm working on it though! ;0)..) I'll have to teach you all some Show of Hands songs next time!

Now then.....Jim McAdam!!! Whooooo! I think he's just become a new Hero of mine! Fancy being on a desert island with Jim....he'd keep me entertained for YEARS!!! ;0)   And when we were finally rescued I'd be able to sing ALL those gorgeous songs down at The Anchor with you!! Whoa Jim....my imagination is off and running now!! :0)

Dave.....how could I have missed you???!! I shall know who to look for in the summer if you're coming down! Hello to everyone else above as well....even The Grumblies!!

Yes...I even LOVE all The Grumblies on this thread....this is because there is NOTHING that they can do to stop my town coming alive in the First Week of August anymore. So...I shall even dance with them down on the sea front....That is if the Morris Men will let me! ;0) Hello all you Morris Girlies out there too! Wavey Smiley! :0)

I may even dance with 'Limehouse Lizzie'....isn't she from a Catherine Cookson novel....lurking down a dark alleyway, red shawl pulled tightly around her shoulders...waiting.....for who knows what.....and dreaming of a Beautiful Devon Town....Somewhere in England...filled with colour, music and dance! ;0)

Lizzie

PS Hello Lynne...Hello Kitty....Hello Alan :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:05 AM

Lizzie, you're worth coming to Sidmouth for, just to meet you!
Watch out for someone with a sign saying "looking for L"...

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Sidmouth Resident
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:06 AM

"Would Sidmouth council be giving £5,000 towards the festival if there was going to be a problem with licensing?" -
Manitas at home

Answer: Yes. It's only Sidmouth Town council that's given a grant. The East Devon District Council (EDDC) is responsible for licensing and their grant has been cut from £60,000 in 2004 to £0 (nothing) in 2005.

That said, the atmosphere in The Anchor was wonderful last weekend and will no doubt be so in late July / early August.

One session does not make a festival though.

I'm sure those who return to my fair town in the summer will be able to enjoy singing in The Anchor and maybe even some morris dancers on the prom but if they walk up to the arena they will find it empty and if they go looking for all the concerts and dance marquees that made the festival so special they will find most (and maybe all) of them missing.

Come and enjoy the sessions, the sand, the sea, the sun but please don't try to pretend that the 'festival' will be anything like the fantastic festivals of years past. It will not be.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:27 AM

Hellooo El Greko! Glad your home from Oz safely! :0)

Helloo Sidmouth Grumblie!.....now then...The Arena.....Ah yes!! That beautiful park which no-one ever gets to see in it's naturally breathtaking state, (except me!)

Don't be daft..it won't be empty! It will be filled with 'the people' all dancing, singing, having their food and drink, lying in the sun, rolling down the hill....when was the last time you roly-polyied (?) with a Morris Man/Girlie down a hill?!....it will be filled with colour, laughter and FUN....'cos we're all going to be there with no rules, no regulations, no health and safety, no licensing laws, no smelly toliets,....just the sun, (or the rain), the trees, the grass, the voices and the music!

'Total Freedom In The Arena'.....Whoooo! Eat your heart out Tony Blair! 'Bums' to you Alistair Campbell! We're still Free People! You can NEVER stop us singing and dancing.

And now...I have to out down to the sea to check it's still there and sparkling in the sun!

Ah! The Bells...The Bells!

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:30 AM

In fact....I even have to GO out down to the sea. Sorry! Way too much excitement! It's all Jim McAdam's fault! I think he should record that song!

Lizzie

Subject: Lry: Eldorado
From: Gervase
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:32 AM

By the superb Graeme Miles...

MY ELDORADO
I had my hopes as we all had hopes
For what I'd be and what I'd do
But as my youth soon bloomed and faded
So all my dreams they vanished too

      I never found my Eldorado
      I never walked down silver sands
      I never saw those gold pagodas
      Nor held a sunrise in my hand
      But I just dreamed and dreamed a dream
      I just dreamed and dreamed a dream

I was just a kid just a scruffy kid
But I held the world in my grubby hands
But then the world just turned to water
Ran through my fingers into the sand

The terraced streets were my playground canyons
The shipyard cranes were my redwood trees
The steel yard tips were my mountain ranges
And the brick yard ponds were my seven seas

The public bar was full of sailors
They laughed and sang and told their tales
But I just felt as black as coal
Put down my glass and walked away

...and to hear Jim sing it - along with Graeme Miles' "Where Ravens Feed' makes the weekend worth the trip all on their own.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: greg stephens
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:36 AM

Will the grumbling moaner be displayed in a cage at this years festival? It might be quite entertaining.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:41 AM

As it happens some of the Radway people were in the "Arena" on Sunday morning and by chance were found by some Anchor people who were out for a constitutional.

I am told that some songs, tunes and dances were shared during what I believe was a very pleasant free period.

I know because my partner was one of the Anchor people and led people through the dance "Trip to Bavaria". She says the tune was not the one she is used to but I think it all worked well enough.

So if they can do it during a winter weekend will it be possible to stop them during the first week in August.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:50 AM

Thanks heaps 'Gervase'! I shall sing that now and think of Jim Jim Jimmy Jim Jim every time!

I really am just about to go out of the door now, but just in case any of you are feeling Sidmouth Withdrawal Symptoms, I thought you might like to look at the pictures on this site. Hope it comes out.
Terrible Dingbat with technology, but here goes:

http://www.sidmouth.ws/

Fingers crossed!

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 06:52 AM

See....I told you didn't I? Doh! Well...if you google it you should get there. Great piccies!

Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Anon
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 07:16 AM

Lizzie, why on earth have you started yet another thread which gives people yet another chance to knock Sidmouth?

The 2005 organisers are struggling to maintain enthusiasm as it is. We really don't need attention drawn again to the licensing problems, lack of volunteer stewards, no arena shows etc. etc.

I know you mean well but you actually harm the festival instead of helping it.

Please desist.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 07:22 AM

Oh Guest Anon, you ARE joking aren't you? The 2005 organisers are struggling to maintain enthusiasm?? I think you are looking at this from a very strange angle...where all the rest of us stand the enthusiasm is bubbling.

And Sidmouth resident...the only thing that you can really cast doubt on as far as licensing goes, is the Ham Marquee, and I'm sure that will be fine. Most of the other concerts, sessions etc are taking place in pubs and hotels which, I'm sure, have already sorted their licenses. If you are bothered about people on these threads knocking the festival, and damaging the festival, don't have a go at Lizzie about it...the best thing you can do is SHUT UP.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 07:24 AM

Brilliant weekend fantastic sessions looking forward to it in august

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 08:50 AM

Lynne and Lizzie, Dont bite!! Don't waste your time!!

Here is Lizzie's photo link - sidpix

Barry

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 09:25 AM

You are, of course, right Barry....wish I could resist...

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 01:20 PM

Thanks Barry...I need you at my computer desk! How did you DO that??
I'm most impressed! It's purely because I'm left-handed you know! ;0)
Computers are COMPETELY designed for right-handed people! ;0)

Don't worry...I won't bite anyone this time around. Absolutely no need..... I Love All Those Grumblies! ;0)

Have just heard that BELLOWHEAD are coming too! This will give me the chance to see if they really are Best Live Act 2005! I've heard them on Mike Harding and the Radio 2 Folk Awards CD...they sound absolutely BRILLIANT! But then I'm a bit of a Spiers & Boden nutcase myself anyway.

Really plesed to hear they're coming too.

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSGeorge
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 01:57 PM

Guest Anon - Lizzie hasn't started another thread giving people a chance to knock Sidmouth!!

All those who are mudcatters appreciate what it takes to keep a festival going and I for one am pleased to see different sides to what goes on for Sidmouth.

Lizzie you are very informative pay no attention to Anon.

George.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Bellowhead Fan
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 02:11 PM

Bellowhead aren't yet confirmed for Sidmouth Lizzie.

See their website - the Sidmouth date is still to be confirmed.

Like so much of Sidmouth 2005, a lot is promised but so much is still to be confirmed.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 02:42 PM

My band is playing at Sidmouth, and our actual dates and times have not been confirmed - but we are appearing!

I imagine it's a similar situation for Bellowhead - but bigger, better, more public, more well known, and easier to make a mystery about whether or not they are playing!!

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ .........good night!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 02:45 PM

Bellowhead Fan, I answered this question on the other thread. It's simply timing (John S hasn't updated his website yet). Give it a rest.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 02:58 PM

I'd just like to confirm that Rhyzome are coming to Sidmouth too!
And I might just...no...I SHALL give Barry from Rhyzome a big hug for sticking by Sidmouth Folk Week through thick and thin!

So that's one hug definitely written down on my Hug Card then, Barry!
And one for El Greko too........

.......now then...where are Show of Hands, Battlefield Band, Whapweazel...and all the others??? Gosh! This 'HUG' idea could lead me into all sorts of exciting things!! ;0) ;0)


Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 03:06 PM

Hmmm yes...you've got me thinking Lizzie..a hugs card sounds like a jolly good idea!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: My guru always said
Date: 22 Feb 05 - 05:23 PM

Well done Lizzie for having the hugs card idea!!! Am soooo surprised that MBSLynne didn't think of it first... *ducks*

Did my badge give me away at the Reunion Lizzie?

Can't wait till August, it'll be FAB!!!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 01:33 AM

I was looking at the Folk Week website earlier to see what the current info is.

It now seems that Alpha coaches will be serving "All" campsites and the LNE.

I was a bit worried about about the trek to and from the Bulverton site when I agreed to help my mate Alan as a steward on the campsite he is running. It now seems I won't necessarily have to cadge a lift or spend cash on taxis.

From my point of veiw yet another reason to smile.

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Kate, Queen Mab's Music.
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 06:20 PM

Hello everyone,

(posted on other thread too!)

Just been pointed in the direction of this site and thread, so I thought I'd drop in to say panic not, bellowhead will be at Sidmouth on the 2nd of August. the bellowhead website will be updated when John isn't busy touring with Eliza Carthy and Sharon Shannon!

Look forward to meeting you all in Sidmouth if not before.

Kate.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 06:23 PM

Looks like I will be there with other(s). Best wishes, Mike.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Blowzabella
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 06:50 PM

I might as well chip in and say that New Scorpion Band are also on at Sidmouth.....

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Bellowhead Fan
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 08:10 PM

Thanks Kate for clarifying the Bellowhead situation.

I see my favourite band are also appearing at Trowbridge and Eastleigh - the latter in the same week as Sidmouth and with a better line-up so I may go there this year.

Sure anyone still going to Sidmouth will have a great time at the Bellowhead gig even if there's fewer events elsewhere in the town compared to previous years.

Bellowhead blew the dance marquee apart last year. They were my highlight of Sidmouth 2004.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 06:46 AM

Dear 'Bellowhead ?Fan?'

Very pleased to hear you're going to be seeing the lads at Eastleigh. Hope you really enjoy yourself.

We're all going to be bopping to them as well down on The Ham, in Sidmouth,in the 800 seater marquee, just a stone's throw from the Sparkling Ocean, and afterwards, when our feet are hot and sore from all that dancing.....we're all going 'skinny dipping' in the shimmering, white, foam-crested waves!!! And after that....we may just all run up to Jacob's Ladder and have one of the biggest cakes in all the world, where the raspberries and cream literally ooze out of the deliciously light, golden sponge...and mermaids watch you from the beams......

....And after THAT!....we may all have a barbecue on the shoreline and then go skinny-dipping all over again....and after THAT....well...Bellowhead Fan....WHO KNOWS??!!! ;0) ;0) ;0) ;0)


See where Bellowhead PLUS the Sidmouth Ocean can lead you!

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: fiddler
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 09:18 AM

Lizzie,

Are there no rules about Barbies on the seashore - I know we are not allowed to sleep there - hence there is a camp site that needs stewards!!!!!

I am sure if there aren't restrictions there is time to get some in place before August :-)

Ho hum - what a good Idea!!!

Andy

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Lizzie in Cloud Cuckoo Land
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 09:29 AM

Hmmm.... I don't know why but I sometimes think Ms. Lizzie has taken leave of her senses and lives in a different world to all the rest of us.

I wish I could see Sidmouth through the same rose-tinted spectacles as she does but I'm afraid Sidmouth in 2005 just doesn't look as rosy to me as Sidmouth in 2004, 2003, 2002...

Still it is nice to know someone can still smile about the downgrading of the UK's best folk festival to just another small event in an events calendar peppered with similar small events.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 09:34 AM

I think she is more likely to be smiling at the prospect of having a good time in August with a lot of other people intent on having a good time. Sounds good to me.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 09:38 AM

Sorry I didn't realise I had come in Cookie-less. The guest above was me. Looking forward to coming to Sidmouth for the first time. Have to admit I have been put off up to now by the shear scale of the thing but am really looking forward to making music for a few days.
love Robbie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Another Guest
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 12:31 PM

Robbie - If you enjoy small gatherings then I'm sure you'll enjoy Sidmouth this year as many of us who have enjoyed past festivals are going elsewhere this summer.

It's sad the festival is nothing like what it was but I'm sure the Middle Bar Singers and others will still have a great time.

Sidmouth may not be a real festival anymore but a sunny Sidmouth is still a lovely place to be in late July.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 12:56 PM

Hmmm...Barbies on Beaches Andy....Are we talking Sausage and Beans or Barbie and Ken? Now my imagination is off and tumbling! If it's a Hot Barbie and the Health & Safety Hootenannys turn up, we shall bury them in the pebbles up to their necks...just in front of the in-coming tide...where they'll have to stay until they sign a document stating that Sidmouth is now an Independant Free State and thus exempt from ANY Health & Safety Regulations pertaining to the rest of the UK or indeed, the world! I know how to make these Health & Safety Munchkins suffer! ;0) We shall also put a plate of Freshly Barbied Tatties, Beans and Saussies just under their noses! Oh! Sweet Torture!   

Now...Barbies and Kens! Well...this conjours up an entirely new picture! The resident Barbies and Kens are as you know Extremely Ancient...however they do still have twinkles in their eyes and I'm sure they'd love to join in the fun! We just won't let them go skinny dipping as this could put us all off our Beans and Saussies Bigtime!! Ooh! Just had a thought! Didn't Barbie dump poor Ken recently? Gosh...what's the name of her new beau then? What a trollop that Barbie's turned into!! On the other hand I think we'd better not go to far down the Barbie Road, as things might get a little strange!

Anyway Andy...Live Dangerously...Sleep On The Shore! Tell them you're just shielding your eyes from the stars! Rebel a Little...In Fact....Rebel A LOT!!

Blimey Sidmouth's sounding more fun than even I'd thought! Wonder if Bellowhead like Bangers and Beans.....we'll need several truck loads to feed all of them! Hmmmm...Bangers, Beans and Beer...could be a song in there somewhere!

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 01:33 PM

Hi Robbie,

That's great to hear. You will be most welcome. Remember to include the Bedford Hotel sessions in your plans. We'd love to have you there.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: steve_harris
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 07:23 PM

"Hmmm.... I don't know why but I sometimes think Ms. Lizzie has taken leave of her senses and lives in a different world to all the rest of us."

Yup. wonderful, isn't it? - and come August you can hop aboard a spaceship and enjoy it too :-)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: steve_harris
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 07:25 PM

"It's purely because I'm left-handed you know!!

I suspected that, Lizzie. All the best people are :-)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: steve_harris
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 07:27 PM

"I may even dance with 'Limehouse Lizzie'"

Careful!

1. Have you got a license?
2. She has the potential to go belly up

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Sidmouth Supporter
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 07:38 PM

The continuing silly postings by the likes of Steve Harris and Lizzie are making even my family, Sidmouth regulars for 20+ years, think twice about attending this year.

Please put a sock in it both of you.

On a more serious note, fiddler, how are the campsite steward numbers looking?

Whether all the normal stewards are reporting for duty as usual is probably as good a sign as any as to what attendance numbers will be like this year.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: fiddler
Date: 25 Feb 05 - 03:34 AM

Early days yet but not enough!

Andy

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 25 Feb 05 - 02:41 PM

So I woke up in the night with a terrible thought! In my last post I was burying the Health & Safety Officer up to his neck in pebbles, just in front of the in-coming tide, where he'd have to stay until he signed the Independent Free State of Sidmouth Document! :-0

How can he sign it if I've buried him up to his neck???? Oh Lordy! This is seriously bad! :0( Do you realise that if I don't rescue him from my strange imagaination I'm in grave danger of drowning a possibly innocent supporter of Sidmouth Folk Week!!!! EEK!

This would undoubtedly result in me being carted off to Exeter Gaol where I will probably be detained for at least 25 years! Thus missing not only this year's Folk Week...but the next 24 years of Sidmouth Festival as well!! Oh! Woe is Me!

I'm just off down to the beach now to free this poor man! Hope it's not a Spring Tide! Don't worry...he'll be safe in my hands! ;0)

Oh and Siddy Suppporter above who said this:

<...The continuing silly postings by the likes of Steve Harris and Lizzie are making even my family, Sidmouth regulars for 20+ years, think twice about attending this year>

Ah go on...go on...Go ON! You Know You Love Us Really!!! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Sidmouth Supporter
Date: 25 Feb 05 - 03:09 PM

No Lizzie. I don't love you really. I think your continued postings and the hostility they attract are doing Sidmouth Folk Week no good at all.

To Andy (fiddler). Thanks for answering my question. I hope numbers improve. As you say it is early days yet.

Maybe Lizzie might volunteer as a campsite steward?

There are some very out-of-the-way corners of the camp site where you might hide her!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 25 Feb 05 - 03:17 PM

Yes we can't have silliness at Sidmouth. Before we know it we will be having a ceilidh dance in the ford, or men will dress up as women and sing in the dark basement of a pub or a group of festival goers will walk into the sea and sing. Nothing silly like that can ever happen at Sidmouth could it.

Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 25 Feb 05 - 07:23 PM

as a responsible politician I abhor this dancing in the ford which does not happen at threeo'clock on the friday or the walking into the sea neither of which have a license Cllr

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 25 Feb 05 - 07:53 PM

Thanks, Cllr, for informing us of what does NOT happen at Sidmouth
This will probably explain the ghost images on my video film!

Colyn.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: EagleWing
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 04:53 AM

"The continuing silly postings by the likes of Steve Harris and Lizzie are making even my family, Sidmouth regulars for 20+ years, think twice about attending this year."

You mean that Sidmouth is such a serious gathering that people will stay away because a couple of people exchange silly remarks?

Ooh er!

Frank L.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 06:21 AM

Shhhhhh! Adrian, don't tell them that there's any chance of any of these things happening! People might think we are not serious folkies! I mean, really...who would do such silly things as those uyou've mentioned?

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 06:25 AM

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..........

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Barden of England
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 07:34 AM

Finally - that GUEST has gone to sleep!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 07:57 AM

Splutter....giggle....chuckle!

My town is going to be filled with hilarious, laughing, smiling, loving people this Folk Week. We may well be held up as a shining example for the rest of the Country. We've all become SO miserable lately. Roll on sparkles and sunshine!

I'm just watching the BBC 4 Celtic Connections programme from last night....Kathryn Tickell's on. She's superb! And Bellowhead are on later too!

For the first time EVER we're going to be buying our tickets well in advance. We used to hold back and see what the weather was going to be like for the Arena, but this year it doesn't matter if it's pouring down, because of the Marquee. Hope one day they're able to put a Marquee of some sorts in The Arena too.

Got to dash...Mike McGoldrick's just turned up on the television....sigh! All this wondrous music!! Aren't we all privileged to know about it? Two years ago I knew nothing about any of it. It was a totally hidden world!

Now I'm so grateful to have fallen deeply in love with it all! And that's entirely due to Show of Hands! They're the ones who started me on this journey of discovery....they're the ones who brought it all out into the open. Can't wait to see them on The Ham! Also The Battlefield Band, as I've never seen them before.

Many thanks to all the good people who are making Sidmouth Folk Week happen!

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Sidmouth Supporter
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 09:52 AM

To Frank (Eagle Wing). No. Of course a couple of silly mudcat postings wouldn't stop us attending Sidmouth after 20+ years.

Scores of silly postings plus some serious ones asking serious questions about whether venues are licensed or not and whether events scheduled for those venues will actually happen or not do concern us though.

We have always travelled to Sidmouth because we love the music and the friendly atmosphere in this particularly beautiful corner of south Devon.

You can't blame us for wondering whether the atmosphere will be as friendly this year after reading all the Sidmouth postings on mudcat. Neither can you blame us for wondering whether the breadth, depth and quality of music, song and dance will be as good in 2005 as it has been for many years past.

We may still attend. We may choose to go elsewhere. We may even decide to support Andy (fiddler) by volunteering as campsite stewards. We've done it before.

One thing is certain though. The various threads on mudcat are unfortunately not good advertisements for Sidmouth this year. That is why we posted earlier suggesting the likes of Lizzie and Steve Harris would do more to help Sidmouth by saying less themselves.

When even hardened Sidmouth veterans like us are being put off think of the effect these postings are having on people thinking of attending Sidmouth for the first time?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 01:19 PM

See the latest newsletter at www.sidmouthfolkweek.org.uk.

You will need Adobe to see it with pretty pictures in full colour.

Also look at the Supporters group form. Sign up and get a few benifits/discounts.

Lizzie get your cheque book and pen out and sign up now.

Same goes to you Mr Harris.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 04:21 PM

You bet we will Dave! ;0)

Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 04:49 PM

Lizzie,

Are you speaking for your household or Mr Harris as well

Dave
(working late tonight to build up the lieu hours for the end of the month at Miskin)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 05:52 PM

Breton Cap

Why the hell do you presume to say what Lizzie or Steve Harris should do with regard to Sidmouth. And why do you link these two people together since they have no connection apart from Sidmouth and posting to Mudcat. I do not know Lizzie but I have met Steve and know that he is a long time supporter of Sidmouth and its ceilidhs.

Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 06:05 PM

Adrian,

I link the two of them because Lizzie and Steve H are both local to Sidmouth.

Lizzie goes on at length about her love of the Festival. Steve, from my view of things, comes at it from a somewhat different angle.

All I wanted to do was to bring the new newsletter to peoples attention and emphasise the Supporters group.

Both of them can take the information or not, it's up to them what they do. Lizzie seem to have taken it in the way I intended. Steve can do what he likes.

If people misundersood my intention I apologise but I meant it to be a lighthearted pointer in the direction I feel supporters of the Festival should be looking.

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 06:14 PM

Breton Cap

Steve Harris is not local to Sidmouth. Maybe you are confusing him with another Steve.

Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 07:15 PM

thanks for the info breton cap I shall sign up regards Cllr
Sorry to have missed you at the reunion Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,TopCat
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 09:08 PM

If Steve Harris is a long time supporter of Sidmouth and its ceilidhs as Adrian1 suggests then Steve's current criticisms of Sidmouth Folk Week 2005 carry more weight than those of other assorted anonymous critics.

Most of the Sidmouth regulars I have spoken to share Steve's concerns about this year's plans.

A couple I know are so unsure as to who to believe that they actually phoned the council for reassurance that the campsite and the Ham marquee have been licensed.

They were told by a very helpful lady that no temporary campsite or outdoor venue has been granted a licence as yet.

Some of my friends will still attend this year. Many will not. All agree that it's a great shame that such a wonderful festival faces ruin thanks to the lack of funding support from the District Council and Sidmouth traders.

Bring back Mrs Casey Music!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Feb 05 - 09:28 PM

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 27 Feb 05 - 06:34 AM

Dear Guest TopCat

As I said before are you sure you and the people you have been talking to are referring to the same Steve. There are several Steves posting to these Sidmouth threads

Steve in Sidmouth = Steve Wozniak, a Sidmouth resident who runs the seered website.

steve_harris = Steve Harris not a Sidmouth resident.

there are others

GUEST,not THAT Steve in Sidmouth = another Sidmouth resident?
GUEST, Steve Vernon
and maybe others


Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 27 Feb 05 - 08:38 AM

'Well Hello Boys';0)

Dave...thank you for asking. You were quite right, I was replying on behalf of my household, and my house is going to be brimming with people this year, who, having spent many a year sliding down the Arena hill in the mud and rain, and who are looking forward to being able to sit in the dry this year, no matter what's happening outside.

Just to clear up any confusion above, I don't know Steve Harris. He doesn't know me.

So, hopefully Dave, I shall come and give you a hug this summer, Somewhere in Sidmouth. Ooh! By the way...am busy formulating my 'How to kidnap Jim McAdams without Annie noticing' plan at present!
I hope he's coming too!! ;0)

Looking forward to putting some names to faces. And Lynne ....have taken note in the other thread of where you'll be. See you all there.

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 27 Feb 05 - 09:50 AM

Yes Lizzie, Jim is going to Sidmouth...so is Annie!!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 27 Feb 05 - 06:06 PM

Can someone put in a good word for me and my delicious drink? I have contacted one of the organsiers and am still waiting to hear if I can come.

Sal

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Andy Jackson
Date: 28 Feb 05 - 03:37 AM

Now this is what I call a chat. But such talk of silliness at Sidmouth, as if I would be seen in a dress (red again, or shall I try my little yellow number?). And as for not dancing in the Ford, I haven't done that several times, once not even wearing flippers and a snorkel. Walking into the sea?? Who would ever do such a thing, especially when raining?
Anywaysup, well done Lizzie for starting such an entertaining thread. Oh by the way a certain gentleman with big voice and ponytail will be at Miskin at Easter as usual if you can't wait till summer. Its closed Season during Easter though so no poaching..Oh and Eldorado is available on his CD "Simply Songs"( short burst on Miskin website soon)

Andy

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: steve_harris
Date: 28 Feb 05 - 08:45 PM

[START QUOTE]Most of the Sidmouth regulars I have spoken to share Steve's concerns about this year's plans.[END QUOTE]

I would point out that my concerns appear to be gradually being addressed.

I have (and have not had) any particular concerns about licensing.

Possibly my mistake was believing that everyone here would understand the symbol ":-)" to imply sarcasm/lack of seriousness. And when I quote something (complete with quote marks which I'm now being explicit about) I do it to put my remarks in context - it doesn't mean I agree with the quoted text.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Guest
Date: 28 Feb 05 - 09:50 PM

Sounds like you're disagreeing with yourself now Steve.

And when someone starts talking to himself, isn't it the first sign of madness?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 03:23 AM

I understand you Steve......sopmeone is trying to wind you up...don't bite!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 11:53 AM

Yes I do seem to have got my Steves mixed up but only in terms of geography.

I still think however that Steve Harris is looking at things differently form most of us even though he now says that his issues are being addressed.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 12:21 PM

We're thinking of attending Sidmouth for the first time this year, this thread having brought it to our attention in the first place.
It doesn't matter about the weather 'cos there's a marquee, It doesn't matter about a licence for the campsite, buy some at the local offy and drink your own, It doesn't matter if all the big names don't turn up, as long as the lesser known and new comers are given the same warm welcome and appreciation. The Festival is what the people who go it make of it, if YOU are intent on having a good time then everyone else will too.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 12:31 PM

Big Mal,

Go for it!

Sidmouth this year will be just the sort of festival you picture it to be.

See you there.

Mines a pint.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 03:23 PM

You're right Big Mal...and I KNOW I'm, going to enjoy it, and so are all my friends and my family....I'm sure all the people who are yet to become friends will too! And the proof of the pudding.....

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 05:54 PM

Hey Big Mal,

Just the kind of attitude we need. Don't forget to drop in to the Bedford sessions sometime during the week, we'd like to meet you.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 02 Mar 05 - 03:09 AM

And to the Middle Bar (Anchor) and the Ashby de la Zouch Folk Club in the Volunteer on the first Friday night!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 02 Mar 05 - 01:38 PM

Lynne,

I might pop into the Volunteer on the Friday, if contemporary/comic is acceptable.

Come back
Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Little Sal
Date: 02 Mar 05 - 02:28 PM

Hey Big Mal,

The licence for the campsite has nothing to do with booze.

It's a licence that covers such things as health and safety to make sure you and your little tent come to no harm.

The council haven't issued a licence for the campsite yet and there is no guarantee that they ever will.

Whoever is running the campsite will need to pay for £15 million public liability insurance first.

But then you probably knew this all along and were just winding people up.

As for not worrying about the weather "cos there's a marquee" if the wind gets up the marquee blows down.

Concerts in marquees get stopped as soon as wind speeds rise above 50mph... and the ham is pretty exposed.

See the clause in the EDCC licence re: tented structures.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 02 Mar 05 - 04:34 PM

My tent is a caravan which i insure separately.

If the EDCC don't want to have anything to with the festival this year then they should not expect anything from the festival, that includes licence fees and extortionate over-inflated PLI cover. (how many tents can you buy for £15M anyway) >:o)

Just how does the licence stop a tent or me coming to harm anyway?

If EDCC want income from tourism then they have to accept tourists.

As for the marquee blowing away, there's always the local hostelries.

I grew up riding a bicycle without a crash helmet, drinking milk straight from a bottle and water from steams, playing on swings and roundabouts in playgrounds with hard surfaces and probably eating worms as a toddler, by todays reconing I should either be dead or suing the local council for some latent traumer - for all those killjoys out there "get a life! and LIVE it" lifes too short not to.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 02 Mar 05 - 04:43 PM

Mal

There is a choice of campsites - Bulverton, Salcombe Regis and Core Hill.

There will be concerts and other events in the Manor Pavilion complex - this is used as a commercial theatre and Arts Centre for the rest of the year, and has a bar, so is unlikely to require additional licences for Folk Week. I'll be running singarounds there in the mornings if you're awake in time.

Kitty

PS Lynne forgot to mention that the Friday Ashby reunion is usually in the garden of the Volunteer, so good weather would be a boon.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 02 Mar 05 - 05:47 PM

It is my understanding that the needed licenses for "good weather" have not been submitted to the coumcil and the council have, as at time of going to press, not EVEN mentioned sorting out a "good weather" license. also the organisers have not been in consultation with the council yet neither at district or town council level about good weather I am really only being helpful in pointing this out as I am sure every body wants the best for the festival which has never ever had any bad weather under the previous golden days of yore when the correct paperwork was filled out for "good weather" Why I remember (cont page 94)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: fiddler
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 04:10 AM

Sorry when I was talking to Alan last night we decided not to go for a good weather licence as others at the festival should really apply - as stated the Ham, Gordon - the outside displays, whoever - it often gets very windy in the Anchor too!

I seem to recall Steve didn't do this every year and it did back fire on him in (was it?) 1997!

So this disorganised bunch of reprobates who know nothing about folk and festivals obviously have learned nothing from history.

So so so sorry we can not offer appropriate licence guarantees!

Andy

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 04:54 AM

The longe this thread goes on the more sure I am that I am going to meet a lot of good people at Sidmouth this year and have a great time. Thank you Lizzie for starting it off.
love Robbie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 07:04 AM

Don T...ANYTHING is acceptable at the Ashby-d-l-Z folk club (well almost!). We don't have rules about what instruments yyou can or can't play, what songs you can or can't play, or even whether it's actually 'folk' or not! So do come! I really look forward to meeting you and hearing your contribution!

Big Mal...I LIKE you!

Love LYnne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: fiddler
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 07:25 AM

Lynne

You're (thankfully) a T**t

Hugs

A

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 07:28 AM

:-)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 08:51 AM

<>

Brilliant! Brilliant! Brilliant Lynne! I'm going to track him round town with my 'Hugs' book! ;0)

<<...so is Annie!!>>

Uh Oh!!!! Looks as if I could be in MAJOR trouble then....having turned her hubbie into a Mudcat Icon!! Lucky Annie....I'll bet he sings her 'Eldorado' all the time! Huurrrrrummmph!

So....I'll just book 'Big Mal' in for a hug and maybe even a kiss too!
(((( xxxx))))....there you go...all booked up. Ooh! Hang on a minute....'Robbie Wilson'...there's another ((((xxxx)))) to go in as well.

Boy! Am I looking forward to Sidmouth this year. Lynne and I are going to be SO busy! ;0) ;0)

Lizzie x

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 09:20 AM

Hello Lizzie, it's nice to see you making people smile in here, rather all of the trouble you cause over at the BBC - there will be a special mention about you in the new Charter, banning !!!!!!! and ;O) etc.

   ;0)}} <- thats my double chins! Ha?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 09:26 AM

Heehee! Helloooo Barry! If there's one thing that drives all those Radio 2 Mizzies up the wall...even more than me mentioning Show of Hands!...it's smiles, passion (!) and FUN! HOW DID MUSIC GET TO BE SO SERIOUS????

Thank heavens for Festivals and Folk Weeks, where people REALLY enjoy themselves and LOVE the music, the dance, the colour, the sun or the rain and just simply LET GO!!!

Here's to Sidmouth! Here's to Freedom! Here's to :0)'s and !!!'s too!

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 09:51 AM

Well somebody had a go at me about !!!???? on another thread, so I'm with you on that one Lizzie, but I have to warn you, I'm not keen on competition! I'll have to hide all the best huggers (yes, I did say Huggers!) and keep them for myself!!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Andy Jackson
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 11:40 AM

can I have a hug please?? :# (I think thats a beard)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Tepid Tom
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 12:06 PM

I think I'd like to see a photo of Lizzie before I'm offered a hug and a kiss. For all I know 'Lizzie from beautiful Sidmouth' may just be an alias for a butch, grizzly, 20-stone ex-coal miner from Wales called Bert with tattoos on the chest and coaldust for hair.

You know what the adverts say. You don't know who you're really talking to on the internet.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 01:03 PM

A hug from a butch, grizzly, 20-stone ex-coal miner from Wales called Bert with tattoos on the chest and coaldust for hair is not to be sniffed at or at least so I have heave been told.
Cllr

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 01:52 PM

What's wrong wiv butch, grizzly, 20-stone ex-coal miners from Wales called Bert with tattoos on the chest and coaldust for hair? Don't knock it 'til youv'e tried it my mother always told me.

Looking forward to the hugs, but don't let "she who must..." catch you.

Can't arrive 'til Sat and must away on the Friday, but will try to fit in as many venues in between.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 01:56 PM

Yeah Tom, don't knock it till you've tried it.

And Lynne, thanks for that. I'm looking forward to meeting lots of catters this year, but you and Lizzie most of all. I'll wear me badge.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 02:09 PM

Good Lord!

At ths rate there will be a queue from Jacobs Ladder to the Drill Hall.

Beards, beer bellys, hair (or not)!

What are you letting yourself in for Lizzie. You will have to reserve an entire afternoon to get in all the hugs. But I'm sure all of us are willing to play the game.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Blowzabella
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 02:52 PM

Please ...I can't go but can I have some hugs too....

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 02:55 PM

Now listen lads.....I'm DEFINITELY not butch....I'm certainly NOT 20 stone...I'm not an ex-coal miner, although I do know a song about one....I have been to Wales and still have relatives who live there,
I don't have tattoos and you're all SO not seeing my chest (!) and I have just spent a FORTUNE having golden highlights in my hair....which means that we no longer have any money to eat...which means that I will be EVEN less like a 20 stone ex-miner by the time you all get here!!! (Phew!)

So...what worries ME is what YOU all look like!!! ;0) ;0) Especially Tepid Tom!!! ;0)

And I don't mind beards, or beer....but PLEASE...No Belly Hair...That is SO not a good look! You just ask Lynne!!

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 02:57 PM

Blowzabella....This is ESPECIALLY for you my Sweetie! Hope your Festival is going well!

                  (((((((((((xxxxxxxxxxx)))))))))))


Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 03:29 PM

Well personally I don't mind a bit of belly hair as long as the belly underneath isn't too bulgy.....and these are JUST hugs aren't they? I mean, should we even know about the belly hair??

LOve Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 04:19 PM

Well Lynne....the trouble is...it's going to be summer....and with the beach right by....well...things could get a little !!!!....even in the 'hugs only' department. Lots of thosse T shirts might be off! We could insist they put them back on of course, but where's the fun in that? ;0)

No...let's go the 'fun' way and set up a Full Body Wax Stall...See Red Steve could run it for us...about time he helped out ;0)....and then there wouldn't be ANY belly hair problems whatsoever! And ANY man that can undergo THAT without screaming gets TWO hugs and a huge cake from the Clock Tower Restaurant!

Come to think of it though....knowing what those Boysies are all like Lynne when they have a cold... ;0).....maybe we should ask Bellowhead to play live, alongside the Full Body Wax Stall...just to drown out the yells! :0) That way we'd keep the atmosphere cheerful! (giggles!)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Tepid Tom
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 06:27 PM

Lizzie - I was voted 'Best Hunk' on Padstow beach by fellow surfers last summer.

Cllr - If you admit to seeking hugs from butch, grizzly,20-stone ex-coal miners from Wales called Bert, not only are your chances of re-election seriously diminished but your chances of staying in the Tory Party are pretty well zero.

Although I suppose a party that has Jeffrey Archer, Jonathan Aitken, Neil Hamilton, Shirley Porter et al will probably let you stay after all!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 06:47 PM

Oooh I'm sooooooooooo worried

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Blowzabella
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 07:42 PM

Ah - Lizzie, thanks for the hug. Arrangements for the 'other' Festival for 2005 are going well, thanks, and it promises to be brilliant - including my own personal favourites, New Scorpion Band - (who are also on at the Manor pavilion at Sidmouth in th first week in August!!) Whilst it may end up being the last (at least in its present format) it will be the biggest and best of its kind.

I'd love to get to Sidmouth but I only get so many days off work and am already off at end of August cos husband wants to go sailing....but then, you just never know when and where I'll turn up (ask New Scorpion Band!)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 03 Mar 05 - 09:24 PM

Really looking forward to Sidmouth this year, with all the promises of HUGS again for everyone.
Could we perhaps have communal hugs in the Dove?
How about resurrecting the blow-up Gorilla?
MBSLynne will certainly understand! (Yes, Lynne, You do know me! Look at my Mudcat name and think of my profession!
Colyn.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 04 Mar 05 - 12:44 PM

Looks like I've blown me chances of any hugs then, having a hairy beer belly, and a hairy chest and no I'm not shaving just for the week (but then I've got to have hair somewhere).

The belly's all brought and paid for too, you can't get one overnight you know, it takes years of dedicated practice :o)

And Lizzy, men don't get colds, we get man flu which is much worse than ordinary flu or colds.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 04 Mar 05 - 01:55 PM

Aha Bonecruncher! Gotcha! How many dogs will you be bringing with you this year? Whatever DID happen to the Gorilla? And I believe there was a blow-up banana and a frog too.....

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 04 Mar 05 - 02:53 PM

Bonecruncher

Inflatable gorilla.... That would be Sidmouth Sunshine, Sparkles and Bubbles, then?

Kitty

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 04 Mar 05 - 04:49 PM

<......Looks like I've blown me chances of any hugs then, having a hairy beer belly, and a hairy chest and......>

Well Big Mal.....you're in luck. I'm a very kind Girlie really. ;0) Wouldn't make you suffer toooo much! As long as you've got your T shirt on you'll be just fine!

Here you go...just to keep you going until the first week of August!

((((((xxxx Big Mal xxxx))))))

Lizzie ;0)

And Blowzabella.....will make sure to get my New Scorpion Band tickets early! :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 05 Mar 05 - 12:08 PM

Lizzie,

I trust you will have a large placard saying something like:

Lizzie luvs ya!! get yer 'ugs 'ere.

Sorry about the English but I'm a Londoner by birth and from time to time revert to type!!:-)

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 06 Mar 05 - 02:59 AM

Thanks Lizzy, that felt sooooo good, can't wait for the real thing :o)

Dave - I can't see anyfink wrong wiv yor english, I woz born and dragged up in London too (Fulham)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 06 Mar 05 - 05:33 AM

Oi! I don't like this! Lizzie's getting more attention than me!!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Andy Jackson
Date: 06 Mar 05 - 05:32 PM

But the Middle Bar always stand to attention for you Lynne ;)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 02:46 AM

:-)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 10:11 AM

Hello Guys! Noiw listen...Dave...Mal...BAAAD news! I looked in the mirror today...REALLY looked! It was VERY depressing! A young girl was looking IN to the mirror...but an OLD WIFEY was looking back! EEK!

I checked and double checked, but the same thing kept happening. I tried taking the mirror back to Boots, but the new one did exactly the same thing!! Oh...Woe Is Me!! HOW has this happened??

I thought it was only fair to warn you...didn't want to build your hopes up toooo much with all those 'golden highlights'!! Sob!

So....if you're into Old Wifey's (as Dougie McLean calls them!) "I'm the girl for you!" If you're not......well................


"Lynne...where are you? I've got two in the queue here who want to transfer their affections!!" Sob!

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 10:16 AM

Have you tried having a portrait in the attic Lizzie?
Giok

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 10:33 AM

Lizzie ......

It's your youthful enthusiasm that enthralls them so .....

I have this vision that you are a bit like Julia Roberts, but with golden highlights .....

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 02:18 PM

Lizzy - I stopped looking into mirrors a long time ago. I shave first thing in the morning while my eyes are still bleary, and don't need to look to comb my hair, I can see my chest without a mirror.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, beauty is only skin deep, you're only as old as the (wo)man you feel, etc.. Besides, you havn't met the missus yet!

Lynne, don't feel too left out, here's a hug to keep you going
((((((((xxxxxxxxxx)))))))))) If the belly don't get in the way we'll have a long one in August

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 03:13 PM

John....that's what's happened...I DID have a portrait in the attic....but it's gone!!!! Ohhhhh!!! :0(

Barry....Whilst I would LOVE to look like Julia Roberts....I..er...well....I tell you what...I'll find a really gorgeous picture of her and make it into a mask....Venetian style. The hair is OK...I've got HAIR like Julia Roberts....it's just the rest!!! Maybe I could brush my hair completely over my face! ;0)

Mal....I shave three times a day!! ;0)...I can see my chest too...but VERY little else after that! It's all a bit of a mystery! :0)

So here's the plan! I'm going to run up and down Jacob's Ladder a dozen times a day! I'm going to cover myself in all those highly expensive creams that fill in 'just about everything', that the Girlies Section in Boots is CRAMMED with (Well we are Sidmouth Girlies!!) I'm going to face the fact that I am fast turning into a Twinkly Wrinkly and then I'm going to launch an enquiry into WHY the Boysies section in Boots is just full of After Shave with not a tub of Anti-Sagging Cream ANYWHERE!

You Boysies need to WORRY far more than you do! You're all too busy growing beards, drinking beer and dreaming of Julia Roberts!
Anyway Guys....Julia is an Old Wifey now. She's got twins!! That means she'll have had no sleep for months, she'll be bad tempered, has a permanent headache, can't talk straight, wears no make-up, slops around the house in old, dirty clothes and is generally no longer a Party Girlie!! Sorry to disillusion you ;0)

Actuallly, come the first week in August....I may just turn into a teenager again.....especially if that Sassy Jim Mcadams is in town! ;0)

Lizzie ((((((xxxxxxx))))))

PS Lynne...if you're out there.....I think this lot are going to give us a bit of trouble this summer!! Any suggestions as to what we can do with them all? ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 03:57 PM

So what am I to experience if I come to Sidmouth this year please.
Oh and it is a possibility........Best wishes, Mike.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 04:17 PM

Well I'm 'well fit', or so I was told the other day!

What are we going to do with them you ask Lizzie? Have fun I should think.

Georgiansilver, what do you WANT to experience? There will be good song sessions, good music sessions, concerts, dancing, workshops. There will be the Doom, Gloom and Despondency Workshop, Silly song session, Sea songs session, singing in the sea. There won't, of course, be any dancing wahtsoever in the ford at 3.00 on Friday. On top of all this, you get all these wonderful friendly, huggy people! What more could anyone want?

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 07 Mar 05 - 04:28 PM

Lynne, what more could a man on his own want? I am coming anyway but am looking forward to meeting any catters who attend. I may even sing the odd song for you all. Accompanied or unaccompanied......I WILL be there. (your problem if it aint any good eh?).......
Best wishes, Mike.
PS...my part of the country....I was brought up in Devon (North) and was a Police officer in the South.......(Torquay) in th late 60's.
See you then!...Byeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 02:21 AM

Lizzie,

Stop worrying!!

Many of us are "over a certain age" and have had "significant" birthdays.

Never mind all the creams and potions - just be yourself and people will see you for the person you are rather than what you look like.

Everybody has something about them that they wish was different but you have what you've got and can't do anything to change it. I haven't got enough hair left to warrant paying for highlights.

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 02:40 AM

And Lizzie...you can worry when you get to my age!! Though Dave's message will still apply

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Big Mal
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 03:55 AM

Lizzy - Shave three times a day? Is tht every day or just when there's a full moon >:o(

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 06:36 AM

Ahhhh! Thanks Guys! Dave....I'm sending you some of my hair...I'll choose some with the highlights in! Freshly washed! ;0)

Mal....I shave EVERY DAY!!! Now when there's a full moon....well...strange things DO start to happen, now you mention it!
I get this overwhelming urge to run up and down The Esplanade singing Show of Hands songs at the top of my voice....with Ralph McTell piccies stuck to my nightie!

You see...I know I'm Growing Older Quicker because Ralphie McTell is looking GORGEOUS! There's a luvverly piccie of him in the latest issue of Acoustic Magazine...all Mean and Moody! (Can Ralphie look Mean? No!) Anyway..he looks....Mmmmmmm and then there's Billy Connolly....WOW! I'm going to put them both next to my Johnny Depp piccies and my large posters of Eddie Upton, Gordon Newton, Derek Schofield and Tony Day!!!! Whooooo! The Sidmouth Saviours!

And Lynne....sweet lovely Lynne. It sounds to me as if you already have a huge fan base on this board! I shall be quite lonely at Jacob's Ladder! ;0)

Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 06:44 AM

Lizzie,

I was expecting your queue to start at Jacobs Ladder with you being on the finishing line at the Drill Hall.

It's a long walk from the Anchor to Jacobs Ladder for some of us poor old souls:-)

Don't wear too many photos we might get put off as we're not all Ralph groupies:-)

dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 07:28 AM

Oh Well....I can always make it The Anchor, Dave...no worries! How about Jim McAdams Piccies then? ;0) Would Annie let me do that? ;0)
How's about a few Kathryn Tickell ones then? She's lovely!

Now listen...you leave Ralphie alone! He's dreeeaammy! I saw him in Exeter,not long ago, with Show of Hands...he's SO tall.....and tanned...and.....shhhhhh! ;0) ;0)

Wish he had his own Radio 2 show. Really enjoyed it last year when he did that Sidmouth Special.

Ooh!   Just had a thought! What about Chris Smithers then? Mmmmmm....Chris Smithers! I sat right where he sat, in the Sidmouth BBC4 film, the other day....about 6 feet away from Jacob's Ladder. The tide was right out, it was perishing cold, but the sun was absolutely beautiful. The waves were quite strong...surfers waves...even a few surfers out...not that I was watching them of course... ;0)

Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Big Mal
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 08:23 AM

Drill Hall, Jacobs Ladder, Volunteer, Middle Bar, Lizzies Place......I hope someone is going to produce a folkie friendly map of Sidmouth showing all the folk friendly venues!

Don't want to waste valuable festival time getting lost.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 08:26 AM

Mal...please allow me to give you a guided tour! Stopping for one in each of the pubs of course....

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 08:40 AM

Well Lizzie I could direct you to a certain Young's pub in Wandsworth where a certain Mr McTell used drink regularly at lunchtime last time I was down there. Of course this would come under the heading of priveleged information and would be chargeable. Will that be cash or account Madam?
Giok

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 08 Mar 05 - 12:41 PM

Ooh John!....Over-Emotional Ralphie Blackmail! ;0)

Mal...you SO won't need a map...just follow all the giggliing ...especially after Lynne's shown you all the pubs (and done whatever she's got planned to do in them!!) ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 13 Mar 05 - 12:08 PM

Right then....enough Ralphie! Back on topic. ;0)

Just to let you know that Last Night's Fun are coming now, along with Ashley Hutchings' Rainbow Chasers and Dr. Faustus!!

The new Newsletter has many more acts on and there are STILL people being booked all the time! Shropshire Bedlams are coming too, along with Martha Rhoden's Tuppenny Dish and Chinewrde Morris.

I was in The Arena park today with our dogs. Beautiful day down here by the way. Anyway....I can't go into The Arena without seeing you all singing and dancing on that paved area now. WHAT is happening to me????? You're all beginning to haunt me!!! ;0)

Hurry up and come down!

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 05:59 AM

I'll put this on here too as it's just gone on the 'Sidmouth Tickets' thread....in response to the usual 'Scarlet Chappie' ;0)....anyway, it gives you an update on who IS coming:

<
Last night I dreamt that I was all alone in the 800 seater 'tent' with.........

The Battlefied Band, Show of Hands, (Whoo! ;0)..) Whapweazel, Bellowhead, Kathryn Tickell, Little Johnny England, John Kirkpatrick, Last Night's Fun, Bismarcks, The Hush, Random, Ashley Hutchings' Rainbow Chasers, Harvey Andrews, Brendan Power, Damien Barber, New Scorpion Band, Rhyzome, Strawhead, Dr. Faustus, Craig;Morgan;Robson, Sandra Kerr, Hot Rats, Martyn Wyndham-Read and Iris Bishop,Blackthorn, Moor Music, Patterson Jordan Dipper, Alison McMorland and Geordie McIntyre, TrioTHRELFALL, All Jigged Out, Jim Causley, Emily Portman and Lauren McCormick, Nandobinyan, Thingumajig, Joe Le Taxi, Mr.Sticky, Red Shed, Keith Kendrick, Ed Rennie, Jackie Oates, Pendragon, Stradivarious, Kelly's Eye, Colin Hume, Charles Bolton, Chris Turner, Mike Courthold, Shropshire Bedlams, Martha Rhoden's Tuppenny Dish, Ladies of the Rolling Pin (Rhode Island USA), Sidmouth Steppers (YAY!)
Chinewrde and lots more........

And I was having THE TIME OF MY LIFE....and THEN.....I woke up and looked at the latest Newsletter and realised that it WASN'T a dream after all.....and then......I remembered how the hotels are getting booked up and The Tourist Information Centre is sending out details all over the country....and I just KNEW that suddenly....I wasn't going to be alone in the 800 seater Ham Marquee anymore.....and at first I felt a little sad.....but then I remembered all of YOU.....and my heart leapt with joy!!! ;0)

And THEN I remembered Stevie Scarlett and my heart took a turn for the worse....just for a split second....but then I realised that NOTHING that anyone can do....least of all 'Stevie Scarlett'...can now stop Sidmouth taking place! And my heart soared once more!!>>

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Steve in Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 06:14 AM

What have I ever said to make you think I don't want it to happen you silly girl? Realism is not negativity, its just realism. It's also necessary these days more than ever.

Whilst you were posting your latest deep thoughts I was putting a realistic comment on the other thread. Missed each other by six minutes! Maybe one day we shall meet, and maybe even dance?????????

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 06:28 AM

We might well meet, Stevie Scarlett....but I'm afraid that my Dance Card is already booked up with Jim McAdams,Dave Earl, Big Mal and Robbie!!!

If only you'd asked sooner! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 07:11 AM

I just thought perhaps I ought to add that Sidmouth is a really lovely little seaside town and a wonderful place to visit and holiday, even when there is no festival there. The festival just enhances the whole thing. (and vice versa!)

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: steve_harris
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 08:42 AM

"I'm afraid that my Dance Card is already booked up with Jim McAdams,Dave Earl, Big Mal and Robbie!!!"

And Me!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 08:49 AM

Of course Steve! Sorry....you're on the FIRST page....I started on the second! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 12:48 PM

Let me tell you a story! a long long time ago (actually it was 2002) the council in East Riding decided that the folk festival was not worth putting on, the people thereabouts however had other ideas and decided to stage a Peoples Voice Festival. No big names at organised venues, just gigs and singarounds in local pubs and clubs, street entertainers, mummers, morris dancers, etc. Publicans put signs in their windows proclaiming they were "Folk Freindly" - it was a fantastic festival.

The following year ERYC saw the error of their ways and ran the Folk Festival with a fringe. It seems councils/organisers have short memories, this year a certain ex-organiser from Sidmouth has migrated 'Up North' and is helping to organise Beverley Festival weekend, the first thing to change - camping only for weekend season ticket holders. So what about those who want to take part in, or just attend the fringe - tough. A certain "Catter" within ERYC however has managed to secure some fringe only, albeit limited, camping spaces.

I am sorry to go on, but my point is that the festival in Sidmouth this year, with or without the Marquee, will be one of the best because those going to it are determined to make it so.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Steve in Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 02:40 PM

Very interesting what can happen when you remove the bureaucracy and let people organise something themselves.

Just let's hope Devon and Cornwall Police don't get in on the act at Sidmouth. Local papers (and some elsewhere) have featured the story of how they sent over 10 officers some armed with video cameras to record possible 'race relations' violations at a 'Darkie Days' event in Padstow, Cornwall. The possible 'crime' was that, following a long tradition connected with the end of the slave trade, locals black up their faces in a procession with song and dance - was this a violation of the PC race relations industry? The CPS thought not, and there have been acres of newsprint. I'll put some of it on SeeRed when I have time. It was another example of why local people with local traditions (in this case going back to the 1900s) should be left alone by the busybodies and PC Health of the Nation monitors. Devon and Cornwall Police were their usual arrogant selves in responding to criticism - including from local MPs.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 02:51 PM

Already discussed extensively elsewhere on Mudcat.

Discussed here

Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 02:52 PM

I forgot to put that I was talking about the Padstow Darkie Days

Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 03:36 PM

I think the Sidmouth Police may well be dancing with the Morris Dancers on the seafront this year Stevie Scarlett! ;0)

Anyway.....we are SO overdue for A Rebellion in this Country!(IMHO) Let's throw caution to the wind and just enjoy ourselves, and if 'they' try to stop us ...we'll all just yell "POX ON PARLIAMENT, TONY!" then sit down in a long row and start to sing protest songs! Jim McAdams can lead us and Lynne, Dave and all the other Middle Bar Singers can join in! We'll have the BEST time EVER!

But surely, the police will be out in force and 'armed' with video cameras at all the OTHER festivals too....or have I missed something? ;0)Anyway...don't panic...the British Police Force probably only have ONE video camera anyway....so if they're doing EVERY Festival in the Country...Sidmouth will have finished by the time they get round to us!

Honestly Stevie Scarlett....you are SUCH a naughty little elf!
Go and read a long book or something! 'Gone With The Wind' is very good! :0)

Lizzie

PS....Big Mal...I've just put YOU down for TWO dances! :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Steve in Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 04:21 PM

""Honestly Stevie Scarlett....you are SUCH a naughty little elf!""

Not as naughty as you are, my dearest petal, for having once PROMISED never to return to mudcat. What happened to your vow?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 04:28 PM

Read the beginning of the thread Stevie....I explained it all there!
I'm a Girlie...I'm allowed to change my mind! Tish!..Tish! You're not concentrating!

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Pontygirl
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 05:07 PM

Lizzie
Don't be down-hearted or take too much notice of the "it can't be doners" - we had the same problem here at Pontardawe when the organisers resigned almost en-masse. But, some of us believed it could be done and we did it! Back on the Festival site in 2004 after 3 years of being confined to a theatre. OK not so big as past Ponty's but the "hwyl" was there!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Pontygirl
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 05:11 PM

p.s. - Ponty 2004 made a profit too!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 14 Mar 05 - 05:27 PM

Well done you! Hope it keeps going from strength to strength!

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Big Mal
Date: 15 Mar 05 - 08:14 AM

Lizzy - I thought your dance card was full - Stevie is going to be really miffed if I get two dances (worried?)

I second your sentiments too re: Pant-y-girdle :o) going from strength to strength, I only hope Beverley sees the error of it's ways before it's too late.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 15 Mar 05 - 08:40 AM

Gosh Big Mal! Who's Beverley???.....I hope she sees too! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

PS Sorry....just couldn't resist!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 15 Mar 05 - 03:35 PM

Dunno, but I know she has a fringe cos there's a thread about it...

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 16 Mar 05 - 09:01 AM

That's why she can't see then Lynne...her 'fringe' is too long!!

Rolling On The Floor With Laughter Smiley!!!! :0)

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 01:35 PM

Hey - you guys crack me up (LOL)

From the other thread - "Ralphie - How do I avoid Lizzies hugs??!!"

Is there something I should know?, why would anyone want to avoid this generous display of affection, If Ralphie dosn't want one Lizzy, can I have his too?

Big Mal (I'm not really that big)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 03:30 PM

Most guys don't admit to that Mal!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 03:35 PM

Well - in the words of the song

"It's not what you've got, it's the way that you use it" :o)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 03:40 PM

It's not what you're given, it's what you do with what you've got.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 03:59 PM

It's not just what you're given, it's what you do with what you've got. Si Khan

Gaughan has opened with this for years. Great Song.
@displaysong.cfm?SongID=3095

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 04:01 PM

OK y'all - we're going a bit off thread here methinks.

So, I've booked me caravan spot, but can't arrive 'til Saturday, so I miss the Friday night do (Is that the MB or Volunteer - or are they the same - I get sooooo confused, the grey cells are not wot they used to be)

How do I know who you all are and how will you know me? considering all the tourists that are going to be there cos it's going to be the best ever 'alternative' Sidmouth Festival.

Perhaps i should just hang a sign around my neck proclaiming "I'm only here for the Hugs"

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 05:10 PM

Ahhhhh! Yes Big Mal....you CAN have two hugs! WHAT an ungrateful Boysie that Ralphie is!!!

Tell you what....look for the Girlies with the signs around their necks which say "We're only here to give the Hugs!" and you'll find me....and Lynne!! ;0)


Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 18 Mar 05 - 03:32 AM

I don't want to sound big headed, but to find me, just ask anyone who MBSLynne is....

You could also get a Mudcat badge from Badger so everyone will know who you are.

Yes, you miss the Volunteer session; The Middle Bar goes on all week, lunch times and evenings.

I do like the idea of a sign saying "Only here for the Hugs"...I might paint it on a T-shirt!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 18 Mar 05 - 09:51 AM

Lynne,

You'd be letting yourself down:-)

Aren't you going to sing or play?

Only hugs indeed! (humph)

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Mar 05 - 10:18 AM

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBSLynne
Date: 18 Mar 05 - 10:36 AM

Ok...how about "Only here for the hugs...
                and the singing, drinking,playing,laughing...."

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Mar 05 - 10:59 AM

Guest's had too much to drink with his lunch.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Adrianl
Date: 18 Mar 05 - 02:15 PM

I've just bought a copy of I-Spy Mudcatters (that shows my age!). I see that Lizzie counts as 100 points.

Adrian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 06:18 AM

Thats going to be one BIG t-shirt, or do we get real close to read the small print :o)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,???
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 08:16 AM

Does Lizzie really exist? Has anyone ever met her and survived to tell the tale? Isn't she really some schoolboy computer geek cooped-up in a back bedroom in Tooting? What on earth is he / she doing on this website posting his / her inane ramblings? Is 'Lizzie in Sidmouth' just a covert attempt by the Tourist Boards in other towns to drive the rest of us away from Sidmouth for ever?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 01:17 PM

We like Lizzie's ramblings, and we like Lizzie.

Anyway, what right has anyone signing in as "???" to challenge the existence of another who has a real name.

Do you really exist "???", or are you just a figment of our imaginations?

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 01:20 PM

More to the point ??? are you a figment of your own imagination!

I think, i think therefore maybe i am

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 06:05 PM

Hello ???.....what a mysterious name! I like that! ;0) Let me answer your questions for you.

1) Do I exist?

Well naturally I do! Otherwise this thread would NEVER have been started by me!

2) Am I a boy?

Well. if I was I'd probably be hugging Lynne not Big Mal...although...NOT necessarily!

3) Do I live in Tooting?

No...but my Dad was, strangely enough, born in Streatham, and we DID used to drive THROUGH Tooting on our way across to Croydon to visit relatives. That's a coincidence isn't it? Gosh...haven't thought of Tooting for years and years! Always used to stop on Tooting Bec Common for a break in the journey! ;0)

4) What am I doing on this website?

Probably exactly the same as you....but from a totally different direction. I'm here to support Sidmouth...you're here to do the opposite.

5) Am I an attempt by other Tourist Boards to drive people away from Sidmouth?

Well...I hadn't thought of it like that, but I can see the reason why they'd want to hire someone to drive people away from Sidmouth and into THEIR towns....this is because Sidmouth is SO beautiful and is going to have a Folk Week this year, the likes of which may very possibly bring EVEN MORE people into town during the first week of August than all those other towns' tourists added together! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

PS Oh!...and by the way it's Beautiful Sidmouth that I'm in! ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 07:28 PM

Lizzie's in Tooting? Good grief, I hope not. It's far too close to home.   What really puzzles me is why she scribbles over so many message boards under so many login IDs yet manages to say absolutely nothing that's musically relevant. If, on the other hand, she really live in Sidmouth, it's certainly made me feel wary of ever setting foot in the place again.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,countess richard (where's my cookie gone?)
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 07:30 PM

Guest above was me. But I'm not Guest ??? I don't go in for multiple punctuation.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 07:36 PM

*sigh. She really lives in Sidmouth..she really exists....and there are a lot of people Sidmouth can easily do without, so if Lizzie scares them off then it's yet another point in her favour.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,countess richard (where the fuck's my cookie
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 07:44 PM

Well, thankyewvmuch, Lynne. Yet another reason (if one were needed) to scare people off the bleedin' Anchor.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 19 Mar 05 - 08:25 PM

Liz XXX

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 06:38 AM

Lynne,

Don't feed the trolls luv, even the mock aristocratic ones. We were just getting to the point where we had one positive thread re. Sidders, and ignoring the noble (LOL) lady might cause her to drift off with luck.

BTW. Tho' not a traddy myself, I like the anchor sessions. They represent the best of one genre, and if some people don't agree they could try elsewhere. I've never seen anyone being dragged inside by Middle Bar Muscle Men.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 06:43 AM

Of course you are right Don...Lizzie has been doing such a good job of keeping it light and fun...

You still coming to our session??

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Andy Jackson
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:03 AM

Quite right Lynne. Lizzie has injected a sense of fun back into the Sidmouth chat. Too many pseudo intelectuals dwelling on problems mostly of their own making and in their imagination.The old spirit of Sidmouth is alive and well, this year will be wonderfull and a good base to go forward from. Now can I go back to worrying about Miskin?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:11 AM

Absolutely lynne.

Let they other buggers do their own thing.

We will all be at Sidders having a great time.

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 08:00 AM

Take no notice of the countess, she's just bitter and twisted that she has not been able to wipe lizzie of every folk message board in existence ... keep smiling lizzie ;-}

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 11:44 AM

every "f*lk" message board in existence

would undoubtedly fare better without this surfeit of irrelevant ramblings. I merely expressed alarm at the prospect that the tentacles of this ubiquitous, tiresome, multi-identity spammer had reached Sarf Lunnon, a hitherto thankfully SoH-free zone.

I take it that the Child ballads do not feature in the repertoire of an Anchor lurker (or at least not as far as #68 is concerned).

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 12:10 PM

I have no idea what that last Chilish cmment was about. But I am looking forward to hearing just what is in th repertoire of all these lovely people. Is #68 as good as # 68?

Child Ballads, Young hunting all sounds a bit dodgy to me

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 12:12 PM

Ace typing
Childish comment
Is #68 as good as # 69?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 12:33 PM

Lynne,

You bet I'm coming. The change in the weather has come at just the right time for the "Management's" arthritis, so we'll both be at Donisthorpe on 31st.

Re. the "surfeit of irrelevant ramblings", pot & kettle springs to mind. You just keep 'em coming Lizzie. I hail originally from Lunnon (north), and it could do with cheering up.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 12:56 PM

Countess Richard.....XXXXXXXXXX
(((((((((((((((((((((Countess Richard)))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Love Lynne
(I thought the poor, sad lady needed a hug and a kiss!)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 01:07 PM

Yuk. No thanks. A Lizzie-free Sidmouth with international dance and music workshops would be good. Here's to 2006.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 01:15 PM

Did anyone hear something just then. I could swear I heard the sound of something nasty.

Sidmouth 2006 will only happen BECAUSE of our efforts in 2005.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Another Guest
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 01:22 PM

I echo that.

The only good thing about Sidmouth 2005 is that while it's on Loony Lizzie won't have time to clog-up mudcat and every other folk board.

I can just about stomach her ridiculous ramblings under the 'Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth' name but it's all her other anonymous postings under a huge variety of other 'Guest' names that irritate me.

Why she feels it necessary to post 'anonymous' attacks on the festival just so she can then post even longer answers to herself is beyond me.

To those expecting "hugs" from Lizzie, beware her teeth in the back of your neck when she hugs you.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 01:26 PM

Erm - so why are YOU going under cover, Another Guest?

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 01:35 PM

Sidmouth 2006 will only happen BECAUSE of our efforts in 2005

Er...why exactly do you imagine that staying in the pub all the time as usual is going to impinge in any way upon the festival? It never has before...

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 06:09 PM

Hello Countess Sweetums.....I was wondering when you'd turn up! ;0)
Boy! You seem a little...erm.....agitated.

Nice here though isn't it? All Sunshine and Sparkles! That's just the way we're all staying too.

Here.....a few :0):0) :0)'s especially for you.

Hope you've not come over here to try and steal mine and Lynne's Boysies....they're all booked up Countess I'm afraid. Should have come earlier.....Oh hang on a minute...I think Stevie Scarlett was looking for a hug card vacancy earlier.....do you have room for him?


I expect you do. ;0)

Lots of Love

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Bored
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 06:57 PM

Does nothing stop Lizzie?

Hasn't she anything better to do with her life?

She must spend all her time typing away to compose her little messages to her little audience.

Why not use e-mail Lizzie?

Maybe this board could then have useful information on Sidmouth instead of waffle about how many hugs Lizzie will get.

Yours etc.

Bored

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:20 PM

Well that was a really positive use of time.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:24 PM

Countess, and other detractors of Sidmouth 2005,

Forget about the International music and dance workshops. They're not happening this year........Live with it!

Remember that the English folk music and dance you so disdain and disparage was the foundation on which the international festival was built. If you could all see beyond the end of your noses, throw your considerable energy into positive support of what we are able to supply this year, and help make it a success, the same thing WILL happen again.

If all you are prepared to do is bitch and carp about what CAN'T be achieved in 2005, then we don't need you. Go start your own thread, and we'll leave you to be miserable as you like on that one.

Meantime we'll concentrate on cultivating, rather than alienating, the people of Sidmouth, so that they will want the festivals to continue in 2006 and beyond.

Steve Heap isn't coming back any time soon, so someone else will have to produce the goods. They won't get everything right straight away, but, with support rather than carping criticism, their results will improve, and the International festival will rise again.

If we had followed your line this year, IMHO there would have been no chance of Sidmouth 2006 happening at all.

So you might have to admit, at some point, that it was worth while our "staying in the pub", to use your disparaging, and erroneous comment

Are you really so dim, Countess, as to imagine that we don't go to the concerts as well as supporting sessions?

For God's sake grow up, and stop throwing your rattle out of the pram just because you don't get everything the way you want it. Things change, and tho' we don't like the changes, some of us are mature enough to accept them, and get on with it. The down side of that is the fact that what we achieve also benefits whingers who do nothing but moan and belittle our efforts.

Hoping not to hear from you again
Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:29 PM

P.S. For all you nice positive people out there, I have already administered a slap on the wrist to myself for Troll feeding, but honestly, there comes a time when you just have to let fly at these thread hijacking know-alls.

DT

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:36 PM

I hope it is a success for you all. But the screeching enforced jollity shown here is at best embarrassing and at worst going to deter alot of folk from venturing anywhere near the place. I am sure lizzie will calm down once they sort out the correct HRT levels. But meanwhile she is singlehandedly doing nothing in the PR department. Many would travel in the opposite direction to avoid people like that.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 07:40 PM

Your choice guest!

DT

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 20 Mar 05 - 10:52 PM

And mine,"Don T", (whoever you are). You are clearly unaware of my involvement in English music and dance which predates this upstart ilk of "huggers" for rather a long time before most of you had even heard of Sidmouth. Many of my younger friends have literally grown up with the festival and have learned all they know from its workshops and formed musical alliances which still endure and develop. Whatever gives you the right to instruct us sneeringly to "forget about international music and dance", the very foundations upon which the fesival was built? We can well do without patronising comments from those with no past involvement on how you think we should spend our first week in August. Mooching around the Anchor with occasional forays along to Jacob's Ladder with possible gigs by the likes of the Wurzels and SoH doesn't do it for me, thankewvmuch.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 04:36 AM

Well Countess...my involvement with Sidmouth goes back a LONG way...and if you can do without 'patronising comments' we can equally well do without nasty, bitchy, unpleasant people like you. It is a great relief to know you won't be going to Sidmouth and I hope that all the other miseries who only seem to want to wreck everyone else's fun and enjoyment will take a leaf out of your book and stay away. We will have a wonderful time, I guarantee, and we wont spare a ssingle thought for you moulering away in your own misery and unable to smile and have fun. Someone mentioned bitter and twisted in relationship to you...I think that just about hits the nail on the head.

A comment to all those who are complaining about the 'enforced jollity' and all the other complaints about this thread....YOU DON'T HAVE TO BLOODY WELL READ IT!!! Just leave us alone and let us enjoy ourselves as we want to...we aren't hurting you so I see no reason why you should want to make things unpleasant for us.

And yes, I know I'm feeding trolls as well...

The proof of the festival will be in the enjoying!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 04:42 AM

"You are clearly unaware of my involvement in English music and dance"

"Many of my younger friends...."

"Whatever gives you the right to instruct us sneeringly...."

"We can well do without patronising comments...."


What a load of pompous arrogant SHITE!!

Get a life and live it somewhere else!!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 05:24 AM

Mr Hunt aka fag paper, "Lynne", "Don T"

Many would travel in the opposite direction to avoid people like that

Quite. I've never personally met any of you and really hope I never do.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: IanC
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 05:27 AM

So, "countess", why do you keep wasting your precious - and clearly very important - time posting on this thread?

;-)
Ian

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 05:44 AM

Dunno who you are either. I'm no more important than any other person with a former involvement with Sidmouth who regrets its passing in the form we loved. What's alarming and inexplicable is the emergence of this viciously insidious clique who are hell-bent on driving out anyone who looks askance at their peculiar, happy-clappy, ramshackle, cliquish, MOR-loving concept of what they think constitutes a festival. Even more importantly, it is surely counter-productive in the extreme to encouraging the attendance of any new prospective punters with a passing interest. Though perhaps that's what you want,

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: IanC
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 06:16 AM

Eh?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 06:32 AM

I have been going to around 10 festivals a year for the past 5 years and have never ben tempted to Sidmouth until this year. What has drawn me mostly has been the positive contributions of Lizzie, Lynne, Rhyzla and co and I am now looking forward eagerly to June, whoever she might be.

All you doomsayers can just piss off and leave us to enjoy ourselves.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 06:35 AM

Countess,

If you must quote me, please quote what I actually said, and not a sound bite which completely changes the meaning.

I did not say "forget about International music and dance", as you well know.

My comment was "forget about the international music and dance workshops. They are not happening this year.

I then went on to say that keeping the festival alive is the way to ensure their re-emergence in the future. I stand by that.

I was also at pains to point out that we don't like these changes, but WE are going ahead with the intention of reversing them. How is this counter productive? Also, what exacvtly are you doing which IS productive, to rebuild the festival you claim to love more than we.

Lastly, I was at the first Sidmouth festival, tho' only for a couple of days, and at many more over the last 51 years, but I don't need to shout about it to support my argument. What gives you the right to comment on my past involvement with folk music, when, as you have admitted, you know nothing at all about me.

The fact that I have only been posting to mudcat for a short time owes more to my shorter acquaintance with computer technology. But one thing I have learned. Personal attacks are unpopular and invite like responses. Your initial comments re. Lizzie were unpleasant, unwarranted, untrue and unwelcome. Now pretty please SOD OFF and pout somewhere else.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 06:39 AM

Countess aka Ms Rabble bleeder:

You have brought us all closer together in our loathing of your comments, and we truly never thought you were more important that anyone else!

Try the BBC board - there are at least two who go there who actually agree with some of your opinions!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:01 AM

You have brought us all closer together

Oh I'm so glad to have been of assistance. You can all now make a joint booking at courses on PR For Beginners, What is Traditional Music - The First Steps and an urgent crash course at a charm school. Don't know if it's too late to redress the tremendous damage you've done in turning off prospective punters though. How did you manage to choose a random SoH gibberish generator as your mascot?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:06 AM

As mascots go, what did Traditional music do to deserve you?

Can you suggest a good charm school ...oops, silly question.

I've had enough of this - have the last word - you usually try to!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:11 AM

Dear me, what an unhappy lady you must be to spend so much of your time in being nasty to people whom you have never met and know nothing about. I heartily concur with your comment...I really hope I never have the misfortune to meet you...I have absolutely no need of ignorant bitches among my auquaintanceship. I think we will find that there are quite a number of people who will go to Sidmouth for the first time this year...undeterred by your unpleasantness and happy that the people who DO go are friendly, positive people who like to have fun and that the miseries who might make it a less than happy place to be are staying away in their droves.

YOu are a viscious and nasty person and I echo the comment of a couple of the others...piss off and go and moulder in your own malignancy..

I begin to think it's time this thread was deleted...??

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:32 AM

No Lynne....don't delete the thread...that's exactly what 'they're' after.

The trouble is you see, that 'they' tried so hard to stop Sidmouth, but it's rolling faster and getting stronger with every passing day.

There is absolutely nothing they can now do to stop Sidmouth taking place....and to say with one breath how much you know about and love Traditional Dance and Music, whilst with the next breath doing everything you can to undermine one of the most important folk festivals in the country, makes no sense to me.

Sidmouth has outlived every murderous attempt upon it. It has been critically wounded and almost died....but then the 'Crash' Team arrived and pumped life-giving oxygen back in and the rest....is history.

Never in the history of Folk Festivals has any Festival fought off bitterness and hatred as Sidmouth has.....and replaced it with love and affection.

I remember Gordon Newton saying at the last Sidmouth Folk Week meeting, that he had been coming to Sidmouth for over 30 years and he was heartbroken to think it might not survive. His first grandchild was born last year, in the first week of August....and that was part of the reason why he was so determined to help Sidmouth stand proud again.

He will obviously be at Sidmouth this year, as he is hugely helping to make it happen....he will also be bringing his grandson for his First Ever Sidmouth!

We all owe Gordon, Eddie Upton, Derek Schofield and all the others, a huge debt of gratitude. They have had the courage to go on despite many unkind words being said about them all and so many doubts being raised.

They carried on, IMO, purely because they believed in Sidmouth. As do nearly all of us on this thread!

Let them do their damndest and replace that bitterness with love.

Love is what Sidmouth is about this year, more than any other.

Huge Hugs to you all.


Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:45 AM

Sorry Lizzie...you are right. I wish I could react to viscious attacks the way you do instead of losing my temper.

I feel the same way about Sidmouth...as I'm sure you can tell! I met my husband (el_punkoid_nouveau) there 16 years ago (we celebrate our anniversary during the festival every year instead of our actual wedding anniversary) and my son has been every year except two since he was eight months old and my daughter every year except one since she was eleven months old. They both look forward to it as one of the highlights of their year and they, like us, have made some of the best friends of their lives at Sidmouth. Sidmouth festival has been a large part of my life for 23 years now and I intend to keep going whatever the changes, partly because however I may regret the passing of some aspects of the old festival, a lot of my best friends will also continue to go, and they are what make the festival for me, not the concerts and shows and big-name guests. You are right Lizzie...it is about love.....without these friends I've made over the years, there would be less love in my life and I love them (or at least some of them!) more than anything. And I love Sidmouth-the whole thing..the festival..the town..the ethos... I also look forward to making many more good friends at Sidmouth over the years to come. I am very much looking forward to meeting you Lizzie! And also Big Mal, Robbie, Don T, and lots of others who I've either missed meeting before or who are coming to Sidmouth for the first time this year.

Sorry about the length of this message, but I just wanted to show how much Sidmouth means to ME as an individuual, and to my family...and happily to so many of my friends.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 08:21 AM

Ahhhh! That's nice Lynne....Ermmm....I don't know how to tell you this....but I think that YOUR husband might be on MY Hugs Card! Ooops!
Sorry about that! ;0)

I've been dealing with The Countess over on Radio 2 for a VERY long time now! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Big Mal
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 08:37 AM

Re: Countess - "You are clearly unaware of my involvement in English music and dance"

I have run an extensive web-search and can find no account of 'Countess Richard' ever having any involvement with English, or indeed any other, music and dance. Further more, if it were not for the "Pub Sessions" you seem to abhor so much, then there would be NO Festivals, as it is precisely these sessions that breed the next generation of folk singers and therefore carry on the tradition.

But I am not here to feed the trolls, just to give my point of view.

I attend festivals to be entertained, by artists that I choose to go and listen to, whether they are internationally known, or relative newcomers, either in concert halls or pubs. If none of the artists on at any particular time are to my liking I'll go down to the beach and watch the boats, or become a tourist and take in the sights of Devon, after all I have a whole week in the area.

If I enjoy Sidmouth as much as I think I'm going to this year I might come back in 2006, I would still not be buying a season ticket however, as I still want the freedom of choice.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,John Barden at work
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 08:39 AM

I'm breaking my self-imposed silence just this once.

Well done Lizzie and MBSLynne. You've got this thread back on track because that is exactly what Sidmouth is for me. I'm the big fella in The Bedford every year by the way, and a personal friend of Gordon Newton who is doing so much to keep this festival going. He and I travelled down from, and back to, Kent for the meeting on 23rd. October last to try and get involved to ensure that Sidmouth festival continued, which is more than can be said for those detractors here who have nothing but there own agendas to follow. They need to read the thread about 'Beverley Fringe' and the possible camping problems that anybody without a season ticket may be having. I'd like to remind them that the Beverley Folk Festival didn't happen a couple of years back, but the fringe kept it going and Bevereley Festival came back stronger. By the way, guess who is now part of the organisation of Beverley Festival.
Sure Sidmouth isn't going to be the same festival that it has been for the past few years, but is that so bad? Everything changes, and I happen to think that those who can't accept change are much the poorer for that, but each to his own. Just all of you please live and let live, there are far worse things happening in this world on a day to day basis than what or what isn't Sidmouth Folk Week going to be like this year.

That's it, back to my silence again now on this subject at least.

John Barden (aka The Barden of England)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 08:58 AM

Ms "lizziecornish" turned up on the BBC so-called "F*lk & Acoustic" site probably about a year ago spouting reams of !!! and :-) :-) :-) infested drivel about a dishevelled duo (and to which she has added progressively a string of other MOR tat) about whom she suffers unspeakable fantasies, peppered with lengthy, reactionary extracts from Daily Mail rants on the middle England, prejudiced perspective on the state of the nation, couched in horrendously twee, sexist language which is cringeworthy in equal measure to (most of) the artists themselves and to participants trying to discuss music. It is however noticeable that certain male wannabees who keep their brains in their Levis lap up assiduously this inane, anti-feminist, non-musical rubbish...but that's their problem.

Opinions vary on whether "lizziecornish" is a random word generating program of the type common in targetting message boards or (in the case of the BBC anyway) a Smooth Operations employee gone berserk. I am far from alone, however, in heartily wishing that this self-styled earth-mother Victoria Gillick lookalike would confine her nonsense to a place created for the purpose, namely the Longdogs scribbling board.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: IanC
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 09:33 AM

er ... wouldn't here be as good a place as any? Carry on Lizzie!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 10:14 AM

Its just an idea - why dont you all meet up, strip off, and have a ramping thrusting good orgy, and then all leave with smiles on your faces and look forward to the festival.
happy thrusting

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Mr Red
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 10:34 AM

I still await the next e-mail from the central organisation, I have pencilled it in this year.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,rhyzla
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 10:35 AM

Countess - with every word, you dig a bigger hole!!

Traditional music does not need the likes of you to stand up and defend it, and neither does the BBC 'Folk and Acoustic board' or Mudcat.

Lizzies messages are the antithesis of yours - supportive, mildly- amusing, positive, uncomplicated, non-confrontational, not musically blinkered, never sarcastic (unless you or Anderson is involved!).

And it would appear from the above messages that I'm not the only person who feels this way!!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 10:44 AM

Brilliant words John. Well done. Thank you Ian and Lynne and everyone else, and you Barry.

Diane....glad to see you're feeling more like your old self! ;0)

You're just jealous of all Our Boysies...isn't she Lynne? ;0)
I've told you.....YOU can have Stevie Scarlett....calm down!

Don't worry folks....she's called me all the above over on Radio 2, many a time.

I have special Eleanor Roosevelt Knickers on now with Eleanor's favourite saying which is "No-one can make you feel inferior without your permission." Diane has never had and never will have my permission, so just let all her bad words fly away.

Concentrate on what matters and what is important.

"The greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances. We carry the seeds of the one or the other about with us in our minds wherever we go."
Martha Washington....1731-1802 First Lady of the USA.

Now...Diane....if you'll excuse me....My Boysies are a-waiting for me!.........I'm coming Boysies...........

Lizzie ;0)


Lighten up Diane....go and dance to some Oysterband songs!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 11:14 AM

Lighten up Countess R!

Sidmouth Folk Week is going back to its roots, in the town. It's being run by people who know what they're doing. And it's involving young people, even before the festival officially starts, thanks to the commitment of the likes of Emily Portman, Lauren McCormick and Jim Causley.

There will be other festivals at the same time that offer something different, but there will also be people who know where they want to be on the first Monday in August. And for me, that's Sidmouth.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: EagleWing
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 11:27 AM

I have to disagree with Lynne and Lizzie and lots of others :-)

Countess Richard is doing a great job! She (if it is a she) is creating a situation in which those of us still uncommitted can compare the attitudes of the anti's with those of the pro-Sidmouth folk.

I might have been getting a bit put off by all the hugs and kisses flying around (I see Lynne fairly regularly and she never gives me big hugs [could be the beer belly]) but contrasted to the vitriol throwing exercise by the Countess they certainly make me more inclined to be there, especially if the Countess promises to stay in South London for the duration (though what South London has ever done to deserve that I really don't know).

I've been lurking on this thread for a while. Nearly stopped reading it. Then Countess Richard came in with her sweetness and light and persuaded me to stay - if only to see how nasty she/he/it could get. Nasty - and how!

Frank L.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:05 PM

countess richard at least uses her name and is a member of mudcat she does dos not post as anon and for that alone she gets some respec from me. I believe she has stewarded at sidmouth in the past as well. I do not agree with her views I like Lizzie and I love the continued positive attitude. Hurrah for sidders!

This year is my twentieth at sidmouth and I can't wait oh yes and I love show of hands i booked them for my club back in '94 and then realised I had double booked against the MBS reunion. I went to the reunion    while my mate mc the club he he he I look forward to booking them again one day.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 07:08 PM

that last line should have been "while my mate mc'd the club"

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Guest
Date: 21 Mar 05 - 09:05 PM

My stars!

What an argument!

Sorry but it's put me right off going to Sidmouth this year.

Terri Bell

P.S. I'm just a Guest because I can't be bothered to register and contribute anything more to this childish bickering. Grow up the lot of you.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 02:39 AM

Yes Lizzie..the idea of her being jealous did occur to me too..

And my husband's hugs are his to give as he likes. As a little hugger myself, I could hardly complain if he does the same could I? But how about a hug from your husband Lizzie? I have an advantage over you, in that I've seen your husband! He looks rather nice!

Right Frank....Biiiiiig Hug (OH Gods, I sound like a Telly Tubbie!!) coming up next time I see you! You're right actually...I hug everyone at festivals, but not at all at folk clubs...I shall have to change that. Could surprise a few people!

I'm really looking forward to it all, and it's still four months away! Oh well, I'll go nd practise at Miskin!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Scooby
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 03:04 AM

I think your song cuddles is in order here Lynne.
Yas

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 06:41 AM

Actually I think I'm going to give Lynne a big hug....hope all you lads don't mind! ;0)

My husband?.....Ah! That'll be 'He who owns a Steve Knightley Songbook'........Trouble is....with all these hugs my HRT levels....as someone mentioned above, may well start going a little 'wonky'
HRT standiing for HUSBAND REPLACEMENT THERAPY of course....SO much more fun than hormones that come for a horse!!!

Why would Girlies do that? No.....my HRT is MUCH more fun! Puts a twinkle back in your eye too! ;0) AND it's free....I could save the NHS Hundred of Thousands of Pounds!!!!

Oh dear...my imagination is off and running BIGTIME now....I'd better go and have a cup of tea and calm down!!! ;0)


Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Pissed Off
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 06:56 AM

jesus fuckin christ

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 07:03 AM

But I won't go before I mention that old Ian Anderson of fRoots has a snazzy little cartoon about the Sidmouth Folk Week in his mag. this month. I read it in the newsagents, just before I put it back on the shelf! ;0)

The first caption has two unhappy people looking at a 'Festival Gigs List' and saying *"What are we going to do this first week in August, now that the Sidmouth Festival has become just a mere echo of its' former glory?" This is followed by various captions of Alan Whicker telling them all about the wonderful festivals in other parts of the world and it ends with two happy people, pleased as punch, asking if he knows anywhere else they can go to avoid the general election.

Blimey! If only Ian Anderson was reading this thread eh???? Thought he would have been far more 'on the ball' about THIS first week in August!! Alan Whicker may very well end up coming to Sidmouth I'd have thought! ;0)

Still never mind.....good to know that he's having a go at putting the boot into Sidmouth 2005 whilst at the same time he's taking money off the organisers of that very same Folk Week to advertise the Sidmouth Folk Week in his magazine. Well done Ian! Very thoughtful and supportive!

And THAT IS PRECISELY why Sidmouth this year has come to mean more to me than it EVER has before!

Nice try Ian......but it SO won't work! We're all going to be having the time of our lives down here! Shame you're going to miss it! ;0)
Still at least you'll be able to spend the money you've made from the Sidmouth Folk Week organisers, somewhere else....hope you enjoy doing it!

Long live Eddie Upton, Gordon Newton, Derek Schofield, Barry Lister and all the other hard working, supportive, forward thinking, uplifting people of Sidmouth 2005!! I have SUCH respect for them all.

Lizzie :0)

PS....Apologies to Ian Anderson if I've quoted wrongly from his cartoon...but as I said I put the mag. back on the shelf...so have quoted from memory.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 07:14 AM

Guest P.O. above.

Hmmm....That was pleasant! I can only put it down to your mother giving you such an unfortunate name! Life must be very hard for you. ;0)

Of course....it could also be that you're HRT levels are making your eyes crossed and you've pressed all the wrong buttons on your computer! I DO hope that's the answer anyway. Scary Smiley!!!! :-0

Lizzie :0)

PS......Morning Diane :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 07:17 AM

By the way....just a quickie....Thank you Cllr! :0)

Lizzie

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Pissed Off
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 07:17 AM

nobody imagined you actually read fRoots

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 07:45 AM

I used to! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 11:59 AM

Just a quick thought for those around here who mourn the passing of the International music and dance elemement from Sidmouth.

If thats what you are looking for can I suggest that you make enquiries about WOMAD.

I made this suggestion elsewhere in the hope that it would stop them whinging about the format of Sidmouth 2005 and onwards.

Now can those of us who are supporting Sidmouth Folk Week carry on and, if we choose to be a bit "silly" and put a some fun into our postings, you don't have to participate!

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Sorcha
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 04:41 PM

Now, now, Countess, calm down, put on your little lacy negligee, have a nice cuppa and pet the cat. It will be all right as soon as your meds kick in.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 06:25 PM

Well, the Countess is right to point out that the international teams were what made Sidmouth so distinctive as a festival. Even when the Ukrainian dancers came from Manchester, the Polish dancers from Southampton, the Punjabi dancers from Wolverhampton and the Irish dancers from Yetminster! It's just that the Arena isn't financially viable as a venue.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Sorcha
Date: 22 Mar 05 - 08:35 PM

Cute and funny PM, Countess. Hugs to you too! I think I shall save it just for the laff value, and to prove how funny Mudcat can be.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 04:02 AM

I'm really looking forward to the publication of Sorcha's erudite assessment of the UK music scene based on vast personal experience, co-authored with Ms Lizzie who really knows how to analyse dispassionately. Should win quite a few awards in the fiction category and an arrest warrant for excessive use of the !!! key.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 04:58 AM

Lizzie I so dont do quickies
Terry pratchet says over use of the ! is the sign of an insane mind, (Masquarade)

I think he is completly wrong!!!!

Mwaaa Haaa Haa Mwaaaaaaaaa !!!!!!!!!!

PS I dont ever want to be dispassionate about folk music. Judging by this thread nobody else wants to be either now KIss and Make up every body. (if you want to, that is, you might be having fun)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Thomas Yorke
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 07:51 AM

What a very silly post from Herga Kitty above and how typical of the cheap jibes and sniping from those involved with this year's Folk Week who think they know sooooo much better than those who organised the Sidmouth International Festival in times past.

Most of the international dance sides did come from abroad and it was their colour and style that made Sidmouth so unique.

Sure you can take out the 'international' element and scrap all the arena shows etc.

Indeed the organisers of Folk week 2005 have done just that.

Now Folk Week is just another very average event in an already crowded calendar with nothing that marks it out as special or unique.

Those who still attend will enjoy singing in the pubs and dancing in church halls just like they enjoy such things wherever they live.

But nobody can deny that this year's Folk Week is a very pale shadow of its former self.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 07:59 AM

I wouldn't know. I was never tempted to go before. I am looking forward to going this year though because of the ennthusiasm of people who have said they will be there.

In these days of global comercialism getting to see colour from all over the world is not rare. Participating is.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 07:59 AM

Nobody is actually trying to deny it. Steve Heap pulled out of Sidmouth last year, leaving us with 12 months to organise something which has been taking him two years to do. ( and that's with everytning ready and in place for organising it too) On top of that we have little or no funding. So no, Sidmouth is not going to be like it was, and none of us has ever said so, or in any way expects it to be. On the other hand, the thing that will make this festival unique and special is actually the same thing that has always mde it unique and special...WE will all be there. We will be singing, dancing, playing and drinking with our friends, as we always have. We will be watching concerts and thoroughly enjoying ourselves. Which is what makes it special...and what makes all the other festivals in the country special too..

And by the way...if our conversation irritates you so much, why are you listening to it in the first place? Go away and be sad while we have fun.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 09:32 AM

I never cease to be amazed at the petty, narrow mindedness of some of my fellow human beings, so wrapped up in there own little worlds that when something comes along that is different to the norm all they can do is criticise those trying there best to at least arrange something at short notice and bemoan the loss of something that they hitherto have taken for granted.

If Sidmouth Folk Week of the past has been so great, why has Mr Heap gone to ply his trade elsewhere and why has EDDC withdrawn all funding from what must surely have been such a lucrative enterprise.

My thanks go out to those few who are trying their hardest to put on a festival this year under difficult conditions, without whom there would be no Sidmouth Festival 2005 and probably no 2006 onward either.

Those detractors out there who wish to go to commercial festivals elsewhere, please do, those who are staying away because of a couple of argumentative postings on this site (how shallow is that for an excuse) the ones putting the 'spoke in' won't be there anyway so you wouldn't meet them in any case. Those being positive about a different Sidmouth this year I hope to meet as many of you as possible in August.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: MBSLynne
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 09:57 AM

yes..I'm really looking forward to that too Big Mal...to add new friends to the multitude of special friends that Sidmouth has already given me...

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 10:12 AM

Yes indeed!

Sidmouth will be different but it will be just what is wanted by those on this (and other) threads are looking forward to.

A suggestion!

The next time we get a whinge, why not give them a silent raspberry,ignore their post and carry on with "in favour" voting as we have been doing.

Having said that I know I have fed the trolls in the past myself because I allowed myself get p****d off with what had been said.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,MBS
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 10:12 AM

Mal

As reported many times on this board and elsewhere:

i) Steve Heap quit out of sheer frustration with the lack of support from the local council and traders coupled with the ever-increasing problems with licensing and health & safety issues and the fact he couldn't afford to take the financial risk of staging the Festival if weather or anything else hammered ticket sales

ii) Anyone with an ounce of decency should applaud the small group of enthusiastic amateurs who are struggling to keep folk music and dance alive in Sidmouth.

iii) Those amateur organisers still face the same problems as Steve Heap and his professional team faced

iv) The problems are worse as EDDC has cut its £60,000 funding to zero

v) The likely outcome after all the verbals on this board is that:

       (a) the song sessions in the bars and the seafront dance
       dance displays will be as good as ever (maybe better) but

       (b) there will be few if any 'big-name' concerts and no
       international events in the arena (I know, I know, there ARE
      some 'big-name' artistes booked to appear but the planned
      venue for their concerts is not yet licensed by EDDC and
      may never be so).

Come to Sidmouth anyway, the scenery is fab, there will be plenty of sessions and even if the Ham marquee gets cancelled and the 'big-name' artistes don't appear who cares? We'll all be too busy singing our hearts out in The Anchor and won't miss Show of Hands and the rest one little bit.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 11:37 AM

Hey MBS, re-read my post - I'm one of the good guys (I think)and I will definitley be there

>:o) Big Mal

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 12:11 PM

Hey Mal,

Of course you're one of the good guys, and have been all along. Do drop in at the Bedford and the Swan as well, and I'll be brushing up on my few unaccompanied songs and visiting the middle bar. I shall have my guitar with me (nowhere to park it), but only as a footrest.

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 12:21 PM

Guitars in boxes or as footrest are permitted in the Middle Bar.

Have you ever heard of the famous Middle Bar Melodian jam sessions?

You bring the melodian we'll bring the jam!:-)

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Dave Earl
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 12:24 PM

Sorry that was me

lost me cookie somehow. Now found it again

Dave

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Don(Wyziwyg)T
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 01:03 PM

Never was no good on anything with keys or buttons, except computers and phones.

At the Bedford we all join in on the tune sets, and it's improved my guitar playing.......A lot!

Don T.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Malc R
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 01:28 PM

I've never had mine out in public, only been playing wiv it for about a year, I'm a very, very late starter and don't relish showing myself up in public, so I'll pass if that's OK wiv you guys.

Mal >:o)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Red Leicester
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 03:13 PM

Today I finally found this Mudcat. I've seen references to it on the BBC board and other places and didn't think it could be as bad as people said, but its worse!! I had been thinking about giving the "new" Sidmouth another try but now I've dipped into this "conversation" I'm totally dissuaded. The amusing Biff cartoon in Froots didn't put me off, but the woman ranting on about it certainly did. I don't want to run the risk of encountering some of these people, not even in broad daylight! Blimey, with "friends" like these, Sidmouth certainly don't need any enemies!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: rhyzla
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 03:23 PM

Thats the thin end of the wedge, Red Leicester!

Introduce the words 'Irony' and 'Sarcasm' into your mind when you're reading some of the outrageous stuff, and you might be mildly entertained, but to use this thread as a reason to not attend a festival seems pretty weak.

As has been said elsewhere, if you don't wanna come, don't!!

P.S. Don't believe everything the BBC and froots say, they have their own agendas!!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 06:50 PM

Thomas Yorke

You obviously don't know much about past Sidmouth Folk festivals, before Steve Heap dropped the word "folk" from the title. The international element began in 1963 with the Rory O'Connor Dancers, followed in 1964 by a team from Israel, long before there were any displays in the Arena. It became an international festival in 1968, with dance teams from Bavaria and Holland, and Polish dancers from Southampton. There were 6 international dance groups in 1969, including Orlyk, the Ukrainian dancers from Manchester. The Punjab Bhangra dancers from Wolverhampton arrived in 1970, which was the first year of displays at the Knowle Arena.

Yes, it got bigger and better, but it was Steve Heap who decided the Arena wasn't financially viable, before the 2005 organisers came to the same conclusion. The people now organising Sidmouth Folk Week 2005 did in fact run the festival before Steve Heap, so they know how to run a festival without the Knowle Arena.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 06:54 PM

Actually Barry....it seems to me that all the people who ARE coming to Sidmouth are really happy and looking forward to it and 'all' the 'people' who AREN'T coming are erm....well...not happy anyway....so therefore that must mean that Sidmouth's going to be buzzing with happy people this year!! ;0)

Or am I missing something? ;0)

With 'friends like these' 'Cheesy Person' above, Sidmouth will be loved for many, many years to come. The only 'enemies' it has are all those grumpy people on this thread who are so miffed that it is happening. I'd go and read your fRoots and go to one of Alan Whicker's festivals if I were you 'Cheesy' ;0)

Does anyone know if Alan Whicker has contacted the Health And Safety people about his festival? Perhaps we should send out Stevie Scarlett....he knows ALL about festivals! ;0) I didn't realise that Alan Whicker had become a festival organiser! Isn't it amazing the things you find out in your life? I wonder if his company is called Whicker's Festivals.

Hmmm....sending out Stevie Scarlett to help Alan Whicker could actually solve A LOT of problems guys!   Why didn't I think of that before! I wonder where Alan is holding it? Perhaps I should ring Ian Anderson and find out? Now there's a thought! ;0)

I used to like Alan! How old is he now? He was old when I was young?
So that MUST mean that he could be one of the oldest festival organisers in the WHOLE world!! Gosh! Hope he's not putting any tents up on his own! I wonder if he'll come to Sidmouth?

Oh! I've just had another thought!! Does anyone remember Monty Python doing that Whicker's Island sketch....where there were 5 Alan Whicker's all dressed exactly the same and also Father Pierre? Oh dear me...I'm off and running again now!! Giggle...do you think that's where his Festival is? Whicker's Island Festival! I wonder if fRoots are sponsoring him?........THAT'S what it is! fROOTS are sponsoring Whicker's Island Festival! THAT explains the cartoon! Doh! Why has it taken me so long to work that out?

5 Alan Whickers all on the same Island at the same Festival! My Lord the Health and Safety Officer won't know what's hit him and neither will Stevie Scarlett! What if all The Alan's are putting 5 tents up in five different places between them? That could mean 5 Festivals all taking place on one island! Ye Gods and Little Fishes!!! Ian Anderson might have signed himself up to sponsor 5 Whicker Festivals!!

Does he know?......Probably not!

Should we tell him?....DEFINITELY NOT! ;0)

He SO should have come to Sidmouth!!! Ian....WHAT have you done???

I have even MORE good news about Sidmouth tomorrow. I have to pass out now as my eyes are crossing....its 11.55pm! Too late for me now!

See you all in the morning!

Lizzie ;0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Snuffy
Date: 24 Mar 05 - 08:14 AM

Would the Brit Ekland (dance) display team come to the Whicker Man's festival?

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 24 Mar 05 - 09:17 AM

Now then Snuffy....you're losing it even more than me...Watch out! ;0)

The Good News!!

Have you looked at the Sidmouth Folkk Week website recently? The Duncan McFarlane Band are coming! I am SO pleased about this....it was only a few weeks back that I was having an absolute rave on the Radio 2 board about The DMcF Band and now they're coming to Sidmouth!!

I am SUCH a Happy Bunny today!

Have you heard their version of 'Canadee-i-o'? It's just Brilliant!! It's on their 'Woodshed Boys' CD Listen....if you fancy 'A Boogie in The Marquee' then Duncan's Band is the one! I'm going to be jumping up and down...which, OK, I admit might actually CLEAR the marquee completely! But....well....sorry guys....I am SO going to 'let myself go a bit' this year!

Do you know...I have to say that I've never looked forward SO much to a Festival as I'm starting to with Sidmouth this year. And The DMcF Band are supporting The Battlefield Band on the Friday night in The Ham Marquee and I've NEVER seen The Battlefield Band either, but have always wanted to!

I'm telling you by the time Duncan's band have finished with 'Bring 'em Down', 'Benjamim Bowmaneer' or 'The Woodshed Boys'
amongst others, followed by The Battlefield Band...I shall probably have to be taken to Exeter A&E! And if they play 'Canadee-i-o' as well....just tell the St. John's Ambulance Man to let me die 'with a smile on my face!'

That's if I've managed to live through Show of Hands the day before of course, which is always touch and go! ;0) ;0)

And I haven't even dared to think about BELLOWhead yet!!! Or Whapweazel!

I tell you what...I've got Duncan McFarlane's 'Bed of Straw' solo CD as well. Now then...'Bed of Straw' would be fantastic to sing in The Anchor! He wrote it himself and it's all about the pressgangs and what happened to two young lads who were forced into it. It's a true story as well. We'll have to round him up and take him to The Anchor! I'll get Lynne on the job! ;0)

And there's still Les Chauffers a Pieds to tell you about. They're coming too. Four young lads all the way from Quebec...am listening to them right now through their website connection to the Sidmouth Folk Week 'artists' section. Gosh! They're really good! All singing in French....who said we didn't have any International Flavour this year....go and listen and while you're there....listen to The DMcF Band as well. Alistair Hulett, Alistair Russell and Maggie Boyle play on their CD as well. Ali Hulett is sharing the singing on '
Canadee-i-o'. Ohhhh! Alistair Hulett!! Wow! ;0)vAnd SO don't get me started on Geoff Taylor's guitar playing....he wins The !!!!! Award hands down! Wheeeee! Bouncy Smiley! :0) :0)

Well I'm off to listen to some more of those young French-Canadian lads and then I'm away to dress all in blue and find me a Bold Captain heading for Canadee-i-o, who will buy me Silks and Satins!!   Think I'll take a walk down to Sidmouth Seafront and see if there are any about today. ;0) Whoooooo! ;0)

Take care everyone and REMEMBER....ONLY 128 DAYS TO GO TO (((HUGS!)))

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Cllr
Date: 24 Mar 05 - 12:00 PM

lizzie please post more often I really enjoy reading your posts

It is making me lok forward even more to sidmouth and I am going to bring a few newbiews with me as well cllr!!!!!!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: EagleWing
Date: 24 Mar 05 - 12:16 PM

With 'friends like these' 'Cheesy Person' above, Sidmouth will be loved for many, many years to come. The only 'enemies' it has are all those grumpy people on this thread who are so miffed that it is happening. I'd go and read your fRoots and go to one of Alan Whicker's festivals if I were you 'Cheesy' ;0)

Lizzie, please don't be angry with Red Leicester. As he says, he has only just discovered us and doesn't realise that the very people who are putting him off are the ones who will not be there.

Red Leicester, please do not let anything you read on this, or any other thread, put you off going to Sidmouth. There are, unfortunately, a small number determined, for reasons of their own, to destroy the hard work of those who are endeavouring to make a difficult situation work. If you allow those people to put you off, they have succeeded.

The only way to decide about Sidmouth is to look at the event list. Find out about these sessions like "the middle bar" as well as who the concert guests will be. Decide from that information whether it's the right sort of festival for you and take no notice of the negative posts that inundate any thread bearing the word "Sidmouth" and that come from people who will not be going anyway.

I haven't yet made up my mind but it will not be made up by the anti-Sidmouth brigade (or even by promises of hugs) but by finding out whether the combination of concerts and sessions really sounds like my thing or not.

Frank L.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: GUEST,Red Leicester
Date: 24 Mar 05 - 04:34 PM

Eagle Wing said "Red Leicester, please do not let anything you read on this, or any other thread, put you off going to Sidmouth. There are, unfortunately, a small number determined, for reasons of their own, to destroy the hard work of those who are endeavouring to make a difficult situation work. If you allow those people to put you off, they have succeeded."

Thanks for assuming I'm a "he". 48/52 chance of being right, but unfortunately wrong.

I don't think my previous entry can have made it clear. I'm afraid it's some of the people "for" the new Sidmouth who have actually put me off. Without wishing to be rude, some sound quite ..... odd. I'm perfectly capable of judging the quality of the bill from the add in FRoots compared with last year which I really enjoyed, and it looks OK but not much different to a lot of other festivals this year. I liked Sidmouth when I was there before, especially all the people my age at the Dance House. I can only afford a couple of festivals in the summer as I have to work in the holidays, and I think I'm going to pick Towersea and Womad. Sorry.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: EagleWing
Date: 24 Mar 05 - 06:37 PM

That's OK, Red Leicester. Obviously you are the sort of person who will get upset at my not being able to guess from your post that you are female so it's not surprising that you are put off by nice people who occasionally feel the need to defend themselves from nasty attacks.

Enjoy which ever festivals you go to - I'm sure you'll meet quite odd people at all of them as well as those who are normal by your own standards. I haven't met Lizzie but I can assure you that Lynne is no more odd than most folkies.

Frank L.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 25 Mar 05 - 06:05 AM

Ahh! Frank...I'm not odd...I just have a VERY whacky sense of humour. I also have a feeling who 'Red Leicester' might be! ;0)....but I take your point and will try not to send too many of the detractors over to Whicker's Island OR offer too many more hugs!    ;0)

Lizzie :0)



PS.....Hello Cllr!! Wavey Smiley!

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: EagleWing
Date: 25 Mar 05 - 06:16 AM

Ahh! Frank...I'm not odd...I just have a VERY whacky sense of humour. I also have a feeling who 'Red Leicester' might be! ;0)....but I take your point and will try not to send too many of the detractors over to Whicker's Island OR offer too many more hugs!    ;0)

Hey Lizzie, hug who you like including me if I finally get there. I only said that I wouldn't allow the offer of hugs to influence my decision.

Frank L.

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 25 Mar 05 - 08:17 AM

Now then....where was I?...Ah yes!....Book of Hugs....Page 32....Fabian...Fenton...Fernando...Finian....Floyd...Flynn...FRANK!

Put you in there now Frank....JUST in case! ;0)

Lizzie :0)

Subject: RE: Sidmouth Sunshine and Sparkles!
From: Lizzie in beautiful Sidmouth
Date: 19 Apr 05 - 04:58 PM

Thought I'd refresh this thread to give the 'Sidmouth Closed' Mizzies one more title to worry about!

Just feeling a little mischievious! ;0)

Lizzie :0)