A night to remember is promised as Ruth stays true to her roots

AN award-winning multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter is the latest star to line up for a slot on the stage at Alstonefield Village Hall.

The village’s concert series will welcome Nottinghamborn Ruth Notman this month, with organisers promising a night to remember.

Ruth Notman, who will be appearing alongside special guests Dan Britton and Chris Conway, first came to prominence in 2007 when, aged just 17, she was a finalist in the BBC Young Folk Awards. Her clear and unique vocals, with echoes of a young Sandy Denny, charmed audiences.

A period of intensive solo touring followed, and her acclaimed recording Threads was released in the same year.

Accompanied by a selection of accomplished fellow young musicians, including Derbyshire’s Bella Hardy, the album received plaudits in the national press and music magazines, including The Independent, which hailed it their album of the week, as well as The Guardian and Mojo.

She played live in session on Radio 2’s Bob Harris show and gained recognition from some of the folk greats such as John Tams and Kate Rusby.

Her touring activity took second place while she returned to her academic studies in 2009, but she produced the album Life of Lily the same year.

Now returning to her musical career, Ruth’s current instrumental repertoire consists of piano, guitar, harp and melodeon.

Concert series organiser Martin Snodin said: “Her style suggests a variety of influences including Eliza Carthy, John Renbourn, Marilyn Manson and Seth Lakeman – all combining to create a truly fresh and unique brand of acoustic folk, but still remaining rooted in the tradition.

“Special guests to open the evening are Dan Britton and Chris Conway, who had a wonderful reception last time they played in Alstonefield in 2017.

“Dan has played guitar for artists including Cathy Lesurf and has released several nationally acclaimed solo albums.

“Chris has worked with many top musicians – he’s played with members of Jethro Tull and Fairport Convention and toured with Peter Tork.”

The concert takes place on Saturday, September 29 from 8pm and there will be a licensed bar.

Tickets, priced at £11 plus a 10% booking fee, can be bought online by visiting www.wegottickets.com, or for £12.50 by cash or cheque.

To find out more call 01335 310322 or email avh.concerts@gmail.com

The Alton five-mile challenge and fun run is set to take place this month, with runners under starters orders from 11.30am on Sunday, September 30. The community event, held in the village, starts at The Royal Oak pub and has been running for 30 years. The route takes runners along Red Road to Dimmingsdale and then up through undulating, challenging terrain returning to The Royal Oak via Horse Road. A less challenging fun run with a two-mile course along Red Road to The Ramblers Retreat and back is also offered. Entry is £6 for the five-mile challenge run and £4 for the fun run, which can be paid on the day.

Ruth Notman is performing at Alstonefield Village Hall this month