Folk flair takes root at festival

The town was packed as crowds enjoyed music, poetry and street performances. For some performers it was their first opportunity to try out new material. Sarah Courtney performed a Singalong at the Hebden Fringe in the White Lion and loved it so much, she is thinking of continuing it.

She said: “I have loved performing at the festival, there were great audiences. I also managed to see the amazing Kathryn Williams and Michelle Stoddart on Friday. It was a spellbinding set. Beautiful, soulful and inspiring.”

The street performances were a highlight of the weekend with Sheffield City Giants, Moaning Lisa, The Peace Artistes, Sowerby Bridge Morris Dancers, Oakenhoof Cloggers of Littleborough, The Thieving Magpies, Hebden Bridge Hill Millies, Royal Preston Ladies Morris, 400 Roses Ladies Morris and Stone the Crows Morris all taking centre stage.

A craft fair at Hebden Bridge Town Hall was also a huge succcess. Jeweller Rachel Lucie said: “This has been my first craft fair in my home town and I am happy to say I have done really well.”

And on Sunday, a Bluegrass Day was held at the Birchcliffe Centre. Organiser Helen Hutchinson said: “Thank you to all my amazing friends and family for making the day a great success. Great bands, great performances and great fun.”

Sunday evening finished off with the ‘Night of the Troubadours’ at Macpelah with Chris Helme. Singer Terry Logan premiered her solo music at the festival, DJ Duende finished off the evening and Socs Blakley recited poetry into the early hours of the morning.

Organisers thanked all who were involved in making the festival a success. An album of songs donated by festival artists will be released on May 31.