Debt forces festival cancellation

Organisers hope the festival will return next year

One of Wales' premier musical festivals, Sesiwn Fawr has been called off for this year because it has run into financial difficulties.

The organisers of the annual summer festival at Dolgellau, Gwynedd, say they have amassed a £52,000 debt.

Much of the debt was caused by a washout during the 2007 festival. The event has been held every July for the last 16 years.

However, festival organisers say they hope the event can return in 2010.

Bethan Gwanas, speaking for the organisers, said they hope to launch an appeal at a public meeting in the town next Tuesday evening to save Sesiwn Fawr (which is Welsh for Big Session).

"The situation is that we have a debt," said Ywain Myfyr, one of the festivals directors.

It reflects on Wales, there is a place to ask if there is a future for such big festivals Ywain Myfyr, Sesiwn Fawr director

"We have creditors and the feeling is that to hold a festival in 2009 would be seen as trading illegal.

"The committee or the director have no intention of giving up and we hope to be back in 2010 with the Sesiwn Fawr, but it will be different."

"It will give us a chance to look at the provisions and what we can offer.

"It reflects on Wales, there is a place to ask if there is a future for such big festivals."

Barry Jones, the owner of the Unicorn Inn, said: "From a business point of view, the Sesiwn Fawr is very important to us.

Around 10,000 people attended 'Sesiwn Fawr' in 2006

"The Sesiwn helps to support us in the winter.

"This year, if there is no Sesiwn, we don't know what will happen.

"It will be a bitter blow."

Last year headliners on the main stage at the festival included Irish band the Dubliners, and folk singer Meic Stevens.

But in common with many other summer festivals around Wales, the poor weather had a major impact in 2007.

A Welsh Assembly Government spokesperson said: "News of the financial difficulties faced by the festival which has been running for such a long time is regrettable.

"We wish the organisers well with their appeal and hope that they are able to re-launch the event in 2010."