North of England Steel Guitar Festival 2020 - CANCELLED

[Tony Russell Davis]

It is with much regret we have cancelled the NESGF for this year.
After consulting with Vicky at the Buck, and despite the proposed relaxing of some of the controls, it seems too difficult to run the festival while having to organise the pub to create distancing for other customers too.
They can honour existing bookings and are still able to take bookings for rooms in line with the restrictions, so if you have booked and want to cancel, please let them know as soon as you can. If anyone still wants to come and visit the Yorkshire Dales you will be most welcome; but it might still be worth keeping on touch with Vicky in case some further, unexpected, restrictions are introduced.
I'll miss you, and expect we'll all miss each other.
Stay well and safe, Tony.

[Ken Byng]

Sorry to hear that Tony. Your sister festival - the SoESGF had to cancel much earlier because it was being held earlier this month before the government relaxed the rules on social distancing. I have been told that Covid 19 could still be around this time next year. I sincerely hope not.

Best wishes to you guys up there in deepest Yorkshire.

[Donny Johnston]

Having been present at all the festivals since the very beginning, I will miss being there this year, but it was too much of a risk. Hopefully we can do it all again next year. Best wishes to all concerned. Donny.

[nevada150]

I am a regular attendee at the North East Steelies meetings and love the atmosphere in the Buck Inn.
I first attended the Festival 3 months after taking up Lap Steel and Rod King said “you’re very brave”, and I cocked up royally!
My arm was twisted to play by Derek Evans, but on reflection I’m glad he pushed me.
I have only attended 3 of the Festivals due to family commitments that have cropped up over the years, but I can say they’re great and everyone is welcome regardless of experience or ability.
I’m very disappointed that this year’s Festival cannot go ahead, but after talking to Tony, it’s really not feasible this year due to the rules for Pub openings. Let’s all embrace the decision and come back next year firing on all cylinders.
Keith (Plank Marvin) as Derek says!!
Yeh, I’m a Shadows fan!

[mick hearn]

Thanks for the info. I shall miss it as these festivals are the only audience I get on steel believe it or not, and all other gigs cancelled as well so a bummer of a year as it has been for all. Even if running I may have difficulty finding a carer for the wife as she is shielding. Still never mind. My steel is hung up at the moment as I am in a rut but the guitar is out doing some Ventures stuff and listening to Nokie Edwards - a fantastic guitarist - or was R.I.P. Listening intently at his version of "I Got A Woman" and sussing out the licks. Sitting at home tinkering is not the same as blasting out on a gig though no matter what instrument we play.

Will miss you lads.