April 24, 2008
5:09pm Thursday 24th April 2008
IT hardly seems a year, but in three months time, the 18th Great North Country and Western Festival takes place (July 22-27).
Once known as the Witton Festival the organisers have now established it at Barford on the road to Barnard Castle (for those with satellite navigation it can be found at DL12 8UD). It has become a pilgrimage for fans from the length and breadth of Britain.
Artists include: Travis Collins, Kay D and the Redneck Rodeo, The Great North Opry Company, Diesel Cowboys, Texas Back, Colt 45, The Fabulous Picasso Brothers, Settlers Creek, John McCane and Last of the Breed, Crown Top Kings, Red River Wranglers, Red Canyon Band, Midnight Pilgrims, AJ Daniels Band, John Permenter, Hillbilly DeLuxe, Cross Country, Rootin Tootin, Raisin Cain, Wrangler, Little Rock, Union Central, Railroad Bill, Brian Hughes and the Lonesharks and the Kenny Johnson Band.
Visitors can attend by the day, afternoon and evening or up to the full five days with campers, caravans and mobile homes accommodated on site. Old West dress fans will be welcome in the area known as Dodge City. Prices on www. greatnorth. countrymusic-festival. co. uk website.
You can also call John or Margie Tallon on 01429-864900.