The month after

Almost a month since the festival. And only a month till the first meeting to talk about the next one. Or at least, the possibility of holding the next one. It's at The Boathouse (Braunston) on 21 October at 8pm. You're all welcome, but please let me know if you're coming beforehand, so we can make sure enough space is reserved. Thanks.

We've had lots of positive feedback about the festival, and some constructive comments about how it could be improved. Many bands have been in touch, from far (Canada) and near (Coventry), keen to take part in future years. There's talk about an outdoor wine bar, a camping site and much more...

This year we were lucky enough to cover the majority of our costs with grants from public funders, meaning most of the festival was free. We're not sure this is going to be possible in future years, in the current economic climate, and if the festival happens again we think it will have to be on a more commercial footing. And it will also require a much bigger organising team behind it (we were at full stretch this year, I think it's fair to say...).

These are some of my festival highlights:

• Liz Kershaw mentioning Glastonbury in the same breath as Braunston

• Sheelanagig closing Music in the Park in the evening sunshine, and the Pocket Park looking more beautiful than I've ever seen it

• Taking part in the Tug of War - I have never been more determined to win in my life

• The Maclaren buggy races - such competitiveness, in such inclement conditions!

• The parade of gazebos, moved up Barby Lane one by one by some tired but dedicated volunteers from the Village Green en route for the Playing Field

The community choir has another gig - at the Abba Night in the Village Hall on 16th October. Rehearsals start on the 2nd October so let me know if you'd like to join in. We'd also like to get a film club going, following the film screenings at the festival. Again, let me know if you're interested...

A sincere thanks to everyone who helped before, during and after the festival. And to everyone who came and took part.