FILMMAKERS have just three weeks to raise £100,000 to make a major documentary on Sidmouth’s biggest event a reality.

A Small Quiet English Town would document FolkWeek, enjoy a world premiere at the Radway Cinema and have a top director who has worked with world-famous names at the helm.

Producer Paul Tully has scoured the town and UK for archive footage and wants filming to take place at this year’s festival – but it could be left on the cutting room floor if a six-figure shortfall is not met.

Mr Tully’s company FuelTV wants to capture a ‘unique, intimate portrait’ of Sidmouth and its famous festival, and has secured award-winning film maker Andy Baybutt.

Andy boasts an impressive CV having filmed interviews with musicians Eminem, Rod Stewart, Noel Gallagher and Dr Dre.

Paul is now calling on festival fans to make the documentary happen.

“When I first started going to Sidmouth, I realised it was an amazing place, where an amazing festival happens,” he said. “It has got this incredible history – there is a lot to it.

“Sixty per cent of the documentary will be archive film. The rest would be live action of the 2014 festival.

“We also want people to tell their personal stories.”

Archive footage secured dates back to 1962, much submitted by Sidmouth residents and festival regulars.

The documentary has the backing of FolkWeek organisers and members of Show of Hands and Oysterband have offered their support.

And it could set the foundation for future creative enterprises.

“I want as many local businesses involved in this as possible,” added Paul. “I want to offer local employment as well as try to create a fund from future profits that will add to purely creative pursuits in the town.”

An online fundraising campaign is currently under way, and has just over three weeks until it finishes.

Anyone who wants to submit stories and experiences of FolkWeek to Paul and his team should email sidmouthfilm@gmail.com or info@fueltv.ie.

Sidmouth FolkWeek runs from Friday, August 1, to Friday August 8.