ALREADY 2004's Green Man festival is starting to take shape. Like 2003's event in Craig Y Nos Castle, Abercrave, Powys, it's taking place in a rambling old hall - Baskerville Hall, near Hay on Wye.

The line-up is being organised for Saturday, August 21 and will probably consist of a similar mix of indie and folk outfits.

Last year the organisers, local folky pop band It's Jo and Danny, were long on promise and a little short on delivery, but drew a sizeable crowd and established the festival's name.

A common complaint was that it took place inside the rather bleak, dilapidated house instead of in its beautiful gardens.

The bands were patchy at best, the highlight being the Brecon Town Band (brass) who played popular songs in a tent in the garden.

There was also the sight of bearded men selling axes and other heavy blades beside the children's field, which was definitely worth a photograph!

For more info see www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk and www.baskervillehall.co.uk.