Time called by Saddleworth Festival of the Arts Trust

A famous arts festival which has brought an unprecedented wealth of fine music and entertainment to Saddleworth audiences for more than half a century, is no more.

In the face of what the Saddleworth Festival of the Arts Trust describes as a "changing environment", its committee has decided to replace the four-yearly week-long highlight by sponsoring individual events within the community.

A Trust statement read: "Saddleworth Festival Trustees and the Committee operating the Festival have considered the way forward against the background of a changing environment.

"The Festival has been held every four years and these have been very successful for over 50 years.

"It has supported many local cultural, musical and artistic events throughout that time.

"These have been supplemented by bringing in national figures to offer the opportunity to see them perform locally.

"In recent Festivals it has been increasingly difficult to attract national figures at reasonable fees.

"In addition, there are now more societies and others offering concerts, drama and musical entertainment.

"The number of people attending a week long Festival has gradually declined. 

"In view of these factors it has been decided to replace the Festival with sponsoring individual events within Saddleworth.

"This will enable the Committee to ensure that its resources support local events and will probably be able to do this annually."

Applications are now being welcomed. They will be assessed and a modest amount of sponsorship may be offered.

The support will be as sponsorship by the Saddleworth Festival Trust.

Application forms can be obtained from either Colin Smith on 01457 873055 or Colin Berry via email at: colinjamesberry@gmail.com

The next festival had been scheduled to have taken place in June, 2019.

The last event in 2015 attracted soul singer Ruby Turner, world-renowned violinist Tasmin Little, poet Simon Armitage, London Opera Players and famous funnyman Arthur Smith.

It ended with a spectacular finale to celebrate the late festival founder with the Lord Rhodes Concert at St Chad’s Church, Uppermill.

At past festivals big name stars such as Ken Dodd had featured, as well as TV personality Julia Bradbury, BBC presenter George Alagiah, contemporary poet Ian McMillan, comedy star Barry Cryer and The Brighouse and Rastrick Band, at venues including Uppermill Civic Hall, Uppermill Methodist Church and The White Hart Inn.

The first festival was held in 1957 as a presumed one-off, but having caught the public's imagination it continued to grow, drawing in audiences from far and wide.