Bridport began a new history yesterday by hosting the first Bridport StoryFest – a magical weave of stories and music and companionship with storytellers Jane Flood, Martin Maudsley, Rebecca Smart and Michael Loader – all regular tellers at the Art Centre’s bi-monthly Story Café – together with wonderful musicians Martin Soloman, Ailsa Hughes and Fiona Barrow.  In great surroundings, at Water Cleaves in Bridport, we heard, felt and shared stories of the Equinox, of kings and queens and quests, of silkies, waters and wisdom.  I listened with delight to all fifteen story-gifts, drank some cider and ate well.

A big thank-you to Christine Bell, whose inspiration and organisation led to the event, and to hosts, John and Deb, Jude and her team providing the food, Malc on the bar, and all who supported and worked hard to make it happen.  I do hope we’ll do it again …