THE success of this year's Bromyard Folk Festival (September 12-14) was looking decidedly iffy, until the re-opening of the Stourport Road bridge alleviated the threat of the site being cut off.

A big sigh of relief from the organisers who can now herald the first opportunity to see a new line-up of three amazing talents.

The Faire Winds Tour combines the talents of American singer-songwriter Anne Hills, Irish vocalist Aoife Clancy, and English instrumentalist Bill (Belinda) Jones, who present contemporary and traditional songs from their diverse backgrounds.

Anne Hills' distinctly rich and melodic vocal style, drawn from America's best musical traditions, can be heard on her duet album with Tom Paxton, Under American Skies.

Aoife (pronounced Eefa) Clancy is one of the brightest lights currently fusing traditional and contemporary Celtic and American music. Clancy is a former member of the all-female group Cherish the Ladies and daughter of the legendary Bobby Clancy. Her latest release, Silvery Moon, features her lovely and expressive voice.

Bill Jones, born in Staffordshire and now based in the Northeast, has taken the folk circuit by storm with her latest release The Bill Jones Band Live. Not only does she have a sweet and soulful voice, but she also plays accordion, piano, flute, and Irish whistle.

Headliners at this year's festival include Vin Garbutt, Coope, Boyes and Simpson, Tanglefoot, Last Nights Fun and The Doonans, 'though regular festival goers know that half the pleasure of the 'Bromyard experience' is the fringe activity which goes on in the town.

Non-stop sessions of impromptu song and music in the town's many pubs; Morris sides performing at the drop of a hat; a craft fair running throughout the weekend and the opportunity to have a massage, buy the latest CD or tape, choose from 10 different food eateries, browse through some weird and wonderful musical instruments for sale and indulge in up to 10 different real ales in the Festival's three bars all make for a really special and well-loved event.

For full details see www.bromyard-folk-festival.org.uk or contact the box office on 01885 490323. Tickets are selling fast.