At Shrewsbury Folk Festival

Apart from the three main festival stages there are a host of other activities on the site lending the event the atmosphere of a medieval fair but in the 21st century.

Morris Sides abound, small groups of musicians jam, beer, wine and food are sold bought and consumed, entertainers wander, flags and standards flutter and craftsmen and women and artisans flog their wares, competing for your groats.

We spent some time in the main concert tent but participated in other experiences today. We turned up at a singaround which turned out to be what many people would consider to be the stereotypical view of a folk singer in a pub bar. We didn't stay long as it seemed like we were intruding on someone's private world and it looked like they were expecting everyone to sing.

Next stop was a "Spooky Workshop" run by the Spooky Men's Chorale. What great fun, crowded inside a teepee, singing with this  renowned group. We saw them perform later in the main stage to a capacity audience. If you get a chance, check them out. Unique.

Then on to the Demon Barbers XL dance event where folkie music was played with great energy and accompanied by some tremendous  dancing including clog, hip hop and break to great effect.

In addition to all this we did watch some other acts, some great others ok. Gordie MacKeeman and his Rhythm Boys were excellent as was the New Rope String Band whose zany act was sidesplittingly funny. We gave up eventually after a few songs of John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers as it was cold and wet and getting rather late.

Oh, and we walked over 4 miles around the wonderful town of Shrewsbury, but then I would say that as I'm a Shropshire Lad.