It is with immense sadness that we have to announce the death of our co-director Alan Surtees following a short illness.

It was Alan’s vision and passion, along with that of his wife Sandra, which turned the idea they had 20 years ago of a folk festival for Shropshire into the major event that we enjoy today.

He loved everything about the festival but most of all the people – the performers, the volunteers, the visitors. Nothing made him happier than the sight of people having a great time while listening to fabulous music.

Alan was someone who embraced life and lived it to the full. His joie d’vivre and irreverent sense of humour were infectious and he was always the life and soul of any party.

The show will, of course, go on this year and in future years. Alan would want nothing less and it will be the most fitting way to honour his memory.

Thanks to your generosity Hope House raised a whopping £5,711 this year to fund music therapy sessions for children with life limiting illnesses. That takes the total we’ve raised for Hope House to just under £50,000!

We’ve teamed up with 2016 sponsors Hobsons to create a special beer for the festival but we need your help to give it a name.

We are delighted to announce that we have appointed a new Dance Director! Jon Brenner has taken over the role from Phil Bassindale.