Report from MerleFest 2010

Thanks to Louis O'Dwyer, logistics officer for the official ROI mission to Merlefest 2010 (see the BIB for 7 April 2010), who sends a report by Dermot Reidy, with which the rest of the mission are in total unanimity. The report, in its entirety, can be read here. Subsequent instalments, covering experiences after MerleFest, are on their way. Louis adds:

On behalf of our entire entourage I am saying a big thank you to Banjo Bill, whose invaluable knowledge of, & contacts in, Asheville NC added greatly to the comforts of us weary travellers. A casual arrangement to meet in a pub on Monday p.m. was withdrawn at the last minute by our hosts, Lewis & Katie, & instead we were collected from our hotel, whisked to their home, pre-dinner cocktails, sumptuous food, & impeccable hospitality, a six-piece string band of neighbours & friends gathered, including bull fiddle & you can imagine the rest - Heaven's Gate & Paradise Regained, all in one. Thanks for that, Bill - see you soon. Athy beckons.