Bridport Folk Festival moved to August

The event was originally set to go ahead in July, before being postponed until September as many summer events looked as if they would be cancelled again due to the Covid pandemic.

But the September dates clashed with other events taking place in the town - namely the Bridport Hat Festival, which will be taking place on September 4, if it does go ahead.

As a result of this, organisers of the folk festival have announced a new date - the weekend of August 13 to August 15.

Chris Deacon, organiser of Bridport Folk Festival, said: “With all this confusion and restrictions caused by Covid, we had to forfeit our original plans and pluck for a later date. However, this has since conflicted with other town events necessitating yet another date change.

“I’m happy to announce that due to the resolve of the committee, we are now committed to holding the long-awaited fourth Bridport Folk Festival on the weekend of August 13, 14 and 15.

“I apologise for any inconvenience caused to your plans but hope you can amend your diaries and join us for a spectacular weekend of dance and music.

He added: “Our website will be updated and provide the necessary info for all you wonderful performers, volunteers and festival goers. Thank you for your patience, enthusiasm and support and we look forward to welcoming you to Bridport Folk Festival 2021.”

The last Bridport Folk Festival took place in 2019 and saw a variety of performances in Bucky Doo, Millennium Green, Bridport Arts Centre and Electric Palace as well as many other venues throughout the town.

As the three-day festival drew to a close on the Sunday evening, South Street was closed for a full procession of more than 200 dancers.

Organisers said in February that year's event is expected to be considerably downscaled from previous years.

However, they also stated that the festival will provide the opportunity for dancers and musicians to perform once again - and for residents to enjoy their performances.