AS Steve Knightley, charismatic lead singer of the superb Show Of Hands, mused between numbers, "Easter...Gosport and Fareham Festival...summer's begun" long winter felt over at last.

This 14th annual Easter festival continues to grow in popularity, music fans from all over the UK and Europe enjoying the friendly, laid-back atmosphere and organisation, the variety of venues all indoors and within easy strolling distance, good food and drink, and a feast of fine music - both on the stages and impromtu in the bars.

Following Thursday's opening concert by the legendary Ralph McTell, Good Friday's highlight was the brilliant Show Of Hands.

With Knightley's powerful and thought-provoking lyrics, Phil Beer's instrumental dynamics on fiddle and guitars, and Miranda Sykes guesting seamlessly on double-bass, the strong material ranges from the tricky 7/8 time signature of Be Lucky, through the ghostly Widdecombe Fair - with Knightley singing unplugged on the front edge of the stage, an ethereal violin in the darkness of the audience - to the rich three-part harmonies of Cousin Jack and The Oak Tree.

On Easter Saturday, while Oysterband rocked the packed Ferneham Hall, Eleanor McEvoy provided more mellow vibes at Ashcroft Arts Centre with a set of perceptive songs featuring restrained and intelligent lyrics floating on catchy and wistful melodies.

The highlight being her delightfully original version of Chuck Berry's classic Memphis Tennessee - McEvoy dedicating it to single dads, "often treated appallingly".

The Ashcroft also featured Chris Newman on sparkling guitar and Maire Ni Chathasaigh on haunting harp, delivering phenomenal musicianship from the eighth century lament Blind Mary to the jazzy up-tempo Swinging the Lead.

Easter Sunday's climax was the dynamic Eliza Carthy and the excellent Ratcatchers.

With subtle and tight arrangements, an original sound blend including a tuba, and strong four-part harmonies, the band captivated the festival crowd with the beautiful a cappella Maid from the Shore and the symphonic Cobbles.

Great music, great atmosphere, great festival!