I used to go to other 'professional' festivals before I heard of Alnwick's but they haven't got a chance against the one put on by a large, often unseen, band of volunteers led by the committee. And, this year's was saved largely by the Playhouse and I personally thanked the manager for the extra work that he did.

Each year, I think that this one will be hard to top, but they do it.

Who will forget the inscrutable, elegant and athletic Taiwanese girls or their orchestra? As a maker of strange bowed instruments (not for sale), I was interested in the two-stringed violins and I have almost finished my copy of the Kamanche.

Of course, all of the dances and music are arranged for display but the steps, patterns and costumes reflect the towns and regions of their origin. And, such joy and enthusiasm they show in their faces.

The life and colours of all the groups made Alnwick 2008 another great spectacle.

Many thanks to all, I shall return.
C Hierde,
Alport Road,
Sheffield