FolkWeek goers say why they love coming to Sidmouth this week

SOCIAL housing manager Val Stokes, 60, and semi-retired Jon Troy, 57, of Peterborough are on holiday this week, and have been enjoying the festival atmosphere.

“You have these random meetings along the sea front. It’s impossible not to be drawn in by the spirit of the people here,” they said.

David Finlay, reporting on FolkWeek events for the Sidmouth Herald, asked what people liked about the festival.

These are some of their comments.

Architect Simon Lewis, 44, and his wife Alison, also 44, from Bath were on holiday last year when they discovered the festival.

“First and foremost it was the wonderful atmosphere that impressed us. We knew nothing about the festival, but my wife was so inspired by it that she decided to come back again this year with a stall of her own.”

Their textile stall, Recycle Gifts, can be found along the seafront.

Susie, from Sheffield, is visiting her childhood home, and enjoys the opportunities the festival presents for her children.

She said: “It’s such a great atmosphere at the festival, and my children love the music tent in Blackmore Gardens.

“There is such a great diversity of instruments, and the chance to play guitar in public is a good opportunity to become used to performing.”

Lauren Smart, 25, from Honiton, was also enjoying the festival with her family and friends.

She said: “You get to meet such amazing people here; they really make the festival what it is.

“The atmosphere along the seafront is great, and the kids love it.”

*What do you like best about FolkWeek, let us know at www.sidmouthherald.co.uk.