The dates for the 2018 Dart Music Festival are now fixed and a plea for those interested in helping has been made by Robin Foale, the new Chairman of DMF.

The 2018 DMF will begin on Friday, May 11, and continue through Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13.

Robin said: “The booking dwarves have been busy down the music mines, digging out the best and most exciting musical acts to fill this fabulous town with a whole weekend of music, fun and laughter in 2018.

“However, although it may look like the event runs smoothly every year by magic alone, there is in fact a dedicated tribe of DMFers who shepherd the whole process throughout the year until the final three-day extravaganza in May. Not to mention the heroic band of music lovers who help over the three days of the festival itself and this is where you come in. Because, even though the music festival is free for all, it does in fact cost a little bit of money; well, maybe even more than a little bit!

“The 2017 festival cost approximately £75,000 and was of course worth every penny, but it does mean that money needs to be raised through sponsorship and donations before and during the event.

“Do you have what it takes to be part of the DMF Team, and volunteer a little bit of your time while enjoying fabulous free music around glorious Dartmouth from Friday, May 11, to Sunday, May 13?

“A staggering amount was collected by our amazing volunteers who amassed donations and sold wristbands to the crowds attending the various gigs scattered around the town at this year’s Festival.

“Or maybe you could become a sponsor? If you are interested in sponsoring the Dart Music Festival or becoming a “Friend Of The Festival” for the cost of just £25, then grab the nearest internet connection and email [email protected].

“Our Sponsorship Manager will take you through the very simple process of becoming a sponsor, and explain the various bands of sponsorship available.

“However, it isn’t all about handing over the loot. We also need your time, so if things are a little tight, then why not donate yourself? We can certainly find a job to suit you: selling merchandise, or programmes, or whatever you choose to help support one of the town’s most beloved weekends.

“And what can we expect at the 2018 Dart Music Festival? Well, to be honest, we don’t yet know, as the dwarves are still hacking away at the musical coalface and are playing their cards pretty close to their chest; they are so protective of their bands!

“But they have given me just a little taste of what is to come in the shape of some returning acts: John Fairhurst is bringing his full blues band to the 2018 Festival and if you missed the fabulous Echo Town you’ll have another opportunity to see them next year.

“If you like the sound of that, want to be a part of the Dart Music Festival team and make 2018 the best ever, then simply contact [email protected] and we will be delighted to find the perfect job to suit you.”