TAKING over Stroud Fringe, Clare Honeyfield plans to turn the popular event into a ‘varied festival’.

Clare, who runs Made in Stroud is taking the reins from Fringe chairman and treasurer Jeremy Collingwood, vice-chairman and company secretary Christina Snell and steward leader Jack Wetson, who will all resign as directors and committee members in January.

The announcement comes five years after the Fringe was successfully resurrected by the current committee following its cancellation in 2008.

Clare, who ran Goodwill evening for three years until 2012, hopes to include more activities for families with young children and even spoke about possible yoga sessions in the mornings before the festival kicks off.

Speaking to the SNJ Clare spoke about possible improvements for the event next year: “I want there to be more community participation and more for different age groups to enjoy, like perhaps including a skate area.

“About 50 to 60 people have already approached me with new ideas and would like to hear from anyone with a tepee tent who would be interested in having it at next year’s festival.

“I have also made contact with the Chief Executive at Stroud District Council to see how they can support the event; I would like to see more support from officers at the council.”

Mr Collingwood said: “The Fringe has its roots in the passion and belief that volunteering to help the community can really make thing happen.

“From the committee members to the skilled medical team, from the stewards to the stage managers, all are volunteers.

“This year is my fifth as chair and is Christina Snell’s fifth as secretary, and we have both decided the time has come to pass the baton on to a new top team.

“Jack Wetson, our steward leader, is also hanging up his hat, so the Fringe is looking for new committee members.

“We feel we have a model which works, a long list of what needs to be done and the support of many local traders.”

Fringe spokesperson Freddie Whittaker said: “I would like to pay tribute to the amazing work that Jeremy, Christina and Jack have done over the last five years.

“Their commitment, passion and drive have made the Fringe what it is, and their contribution will be sorely missed.

“We want to make sure there is a seamless change in personnel, so I would appeal for anyone with experience running community organisations or events, or anyone who feels they have something to offer, to come forward.”

If anyone would like to get involved, pop into Made in Stroud, in Stroud to speak to Clare.