From Stonehaven Folk Festival –
Organisers of the Stonehaven Folk Festival are thrilled to announce that BBC Radio 4 will be broadcasting the captivating story of the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship at 1.15pm on Christmas Day 2024, with a repeat airing at 9.30pm on Hogmanay.
This iconic competition, a beloved tradition of the festival, will be featured in a special broadcast that delves into its rich history, the incredible performances, and the vibrant spirit of the Stonehaven community.
The F1 team try a fast start.
Since its inception, the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship has become an integral part of the Stonehaven Folk Festival, drawing participants and audiences from across the globe. The competition, which combines music, creativity, and the unique sounds of paper and combs, continues to amaze and entertain festival-goers year after year.
The Radio 4 broadcast will highlight the fun, talent, and quirky charm that has made this competition a standout event, and it will offer listeners a rare opportunity to experience the magic of the championship from the comfort of their homes.
But as Ian Sansom, Radio 4’s roving reporter finds out as he goes into intensive training for the 2024 World Paper and Comb Championships, actually playing what might be our silliest and most spontaneous musical instrument, isn’t as easy as he remembers.
Ian Sansom – Radio 4’s ‘roving reporter – tries his hand at the 2024 Championships.
“We are incredibly excited to have BBC Radio 4 capture the story of the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship,” said Martin Kasprowicz, Festival Chairman and past Combpere of the event.
“This competition is a much-loved tradition for our festival, and to have it broadcast on Christmas Day is a wonderful way to share its unique joy with an even wider audience. It also offers a perfect way to celebrate the spirit of community and creativity that defines Stonehaven Folk Festival.”
The Radio 4 broadcast will offer an in-depth look at the championship, featuring interviews with past champions, organizers, and participants, as well as a look behind the scenes at the making of this one-of-a-kind event. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the festival or new to the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship, this broadcast is not to be missed.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Stonehaven Folk Festival will once again host the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship as part of its exciting line-up, which will run from July 10th to 13th. With a mix of music, culture, and entertainment, the 2025 festival promises to be another unforgettable celebration of folk traditions, and the Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship will once again take pride of place.
“We can’t wait to welcome participants and audiences to the 2025 festival,” Martin Kasprowicz added. “The World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship will undoubtedly be a highlight, and we look forward to celebrating its place in the heart of Stonehaven’s cultural life.”
Tune in to BBC Radio 4’s “Comb and Paper” at 1.15pm on Christmas Day 2024 to hear the story of the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championship, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Stonehaven Folk Festival in July 2025!
For more information about the Stonehaven Folk Festival, including ticket details and event updates, visit www.stonehavenfolkfestival.co.uk.