PICTURE GALLERY: Thousands flock to folk festival

Wath Festival welcomed musicians from around the world — including Scotland, Canada and the US.

Headliners Eddi Reader, Blackbeard’s Tea Party and Rusty Shackle packed Montgomery Hall for three nights running.

Revellers also enjoyed street theatre, story readings and music workshops over the bank holiday weekend.

Hundreds of buns were chucked from Wath Parish Church tower on Sunday, in accordance with the will of Wath man Thomas Tuke, who died in 1810.

A closing concert by Doncaster Youth Swing Orchestra filled the pews on Monday evening.

David Adnitt was the festival’s lead organiser. “I think the weekend went brilliantly,” he said.

“Ticket sales far exceeded our expectations. The acts were filling Montgomery Hall and I was just bowled over by the quality of them.

“I really loved Eddi Reader and I’m sure it helped us to have a household name on the bill, too.”

He added: “I want to say a huge thank you to everyone concerned — all the organising team and all the volunteers. Without them we just couldn’t do it.

“I’d also like to thank everyone who sponsored us, whether in a major way or a small way. It all helps.”

BRITAIN’S only charity folk club — also based in Wath — celebrates its second birthday next month.

Founded in May 2013, Raising the Rafters has spent two years raising over £5,000 for good causes.

Members will mark the achievement with music from duo Andrew Wild and Alan Wood at St James Rooms, Church Street from 7.30pm on May 9.

Entrance costs £5 on the door — all money raised will go to the Purple Butterfly Appeal, which provides end-of-life care at Rotherham Hospital.

The venue has no bar, but guests are encouraged to bring their own bottles. Visit www.raisingtherafters.co.uk for more details.