We are delighted that our concert on Saturday is supported by the BBC Radio Merseyside "Folkscene" programme and that presenters Stan Ambrose and Geoff Speed will provide MC services during the festival.
Folkscene is the longest running folk programme anywhere on the radio dial, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. It was one of the first specialist music programmes launched by Radio Merseyside and has featured a host of local folk groups and artists over the years.
Stan and Geoff both have their roots in the local folk community and reflect the vibrant Merseyside scene.
Geoff ran a highly successful folk club in his home town of Widnes for some years back in the 1960's. "The programme has changed over the years, as has the folk scene itself." Stan has sung and played the whistle in a local band for years and he now plays the Celtic harp. "We aim to promote the music rather than artists but not in an evangelical way."
To celebrate the programme's 10th anniversary in 1977 Stan organised Liverpool's very first "Festival of the Sea", including appearances by Stan Hugill, The Watersons and the original incarnation of Stormalong John. Folkscene can be heard Thursday evening on BBC Radio Merseyside 95.8FM from 9pm. The programme is repeated on Tuesday's at 9pm.