Time called on Music Festival

This from Ralph Warburton on behalf on the whole team .:-

The Festival Team have called an end to the music and arts festival . We all as a team feel that the event cannot go on next year given the two major facts:-

• 1. No idea when there would be a vaccine and as such cannot have crowds.
• 2. Feel I cannot go seeking £17,000 from businesses that have been hit on the bottom line and could well suffer more if , as is likely , we suffer another shut down

The "team" has included a great body of Committee members plus an army of volunteers and helpers over the two decades.

How many men, women and children have been here to enjoy all we presented to them over the years?

About 2500/3000 over the 5 days would equal some 55/60,000- and all for free . We must have had 1600 or so performers -- bands, trios, duos and solo artistes .

Much pleasure for so many which makes it all the more sad !

With a heavy heart , I have told all pubs and businesses today of our decision . An end after 20 years of superb music across all tastes and genres. .Superb art displays. All enjoyed by so many and all given free from the efforts of a very few men and women who have had -- and still do -- such a strong sense of community . As is said, all good things do come an end . This is it .

And this is from Paul and Clare Moran who were both in at the inception of the festival when we started it based in the public hall :-

Gutted!! But fully understand & respect the decision made. This must be far more difficult for you as you have spent 20 years of your life developing the festival & other activities for the village. I will never forget my time involved in it & your support & friendship in those early years.
No-one would have imagined that it would run for 20 years when a few dozen people turned up for our first Public Hall event but you, Pete, Ian & everyone else have made it into an amazing event.
Shame we missed out on Audlum20 in 2020 but far more important things to cope with.
You never know someone might one day revisit it but as we both know it would take a special type of person to do that.