DARTMOOR Folk Festival is one of the nation?s best organised folk events, committee members were told at their recent annual meeting. Dartmoor Folk Festival Association chairman Jason Rice, of Crediton, told members the three-day festival was nationally recognised as one of the finest in the country. He said he believed it was praise which was ?well-deserved?, adding that there had been an ?excellent atmosphere? at last year?s event. The festival is held in South Zeal each August and Mr Rich thanked all those who helped to make it a success, especially the committee members, sponsors and residents of South Zeal. Explaining it was his seventh year as chairman, Mr Rice said he believed the association aims established by the founder, the late Bob Cann ? in particular promoting the traditional music, dance, song and crafts of the area ? were being achieved. He said the association was saddened during the year by the deaths of artists Norman McDonald and Cyril Tawney and of committee member and dance team organiser, Peter Wormold. Following the chairman?s report, treasurer Nick Marvin presented the financial picture. He reported on increase in ticket sales at many of the events and said the festival was now in a good financial position. The election of officers followed with Rob Pudner appointed to a new post of youth director, to encourage and develop the youth activities at the festival. Guests announced for this year?s 29th festival include Sid Kipper, the Devil?s Interval, John Dipper Band, Napper and Bliss, Martyn Wyndham, Reed and No Man?s Band, Hearts of Oak, Cornish Songwriters, Grand Union and Dr Sunshine and Chucklefoot.
