It is often said that York people never support anything worthwhile. I would like to dispel that theory and publicly thank everybody involved in York Awareness Week for their input to an incredible seven days at Fibbers.

There is no reason why musicians should be blessed with genius via geography and this event put to utter shame the many demos I received from the so-called hotspots of Manchester and Camden.

Full houses of fans, other bands and the uncommitted curious witnessed 24 well-rehearsed, organised and talented acts playing virtually all original material of the highest standard.

Most importantly there was a good response from those shadowy, revered creatures - the A&R men. Some came announced and others I spotted paying to enter and watching quietly from the back. There has been an industry buzz about this area for a long time and the last seven days have confirmed what the live music-goers of York knew already - this is a great place to be if you love your music.

Tim Hornsby,

Fibbers,

Stonebow House,

York.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.