In the ‘Eastern Region’ of UK festivals, which is where the Watford Festival is registered, several festivals have had major problems in the last few years, such as official closure, a one-year suspension of activities, losing committee members, being unable to replace the chairman or treasurer and the subsequent closure of a festival or sections of the festival. If the chairman or treasurer cannot be replaced, it often results in the closure of a Festival.

Although the Watford Festival is now one of the largest festivals in the country, it is facing these challenges. The operation of the Festival, which benefits everyone who participates, relies entirely on the efforts of our remarkable team of volunteers. Sometimes we are asked why we cannot run more classes, have to close a section or turn competitors away. We are dependent on our volunteers for our success and for what events the Festival can successfully schedule.

The Watford Festival has been without an Honorary Treasurer for eight months, and needs to find someone to fill this important role as soon as possible for the Festival to be able to continue. If you or anyone you know can help with this, please do contact us via chairman@watfordfestival.co.uk

The Speech & Drama Section, Wind & Brass, and String Sections also need Section Heads to continue running in 2026. We also need a Publicity Officer, a Vice Chairman and a 'Friends' Secretary. Watford Festival events are usually held in February and March each year and so volunteering does not consistently take up large amounts of time. Again, please contact us if you can help in any way.

Festivals give such wonderful opportunities; the chance to perform in front of an audience, to receive feedback from an experienced adjudicator and to learn from listening and watching other performers. Competitive festivals have played an important part in British life for over a hundred years and we hope that with the right help, the Watford Festival can continue to flourish.

Jennifer Hill
Chairman