Their succession plan is for a new generation to take their places. Stepping up as HFT directors will be Trevor Deeble, who facilitates the Fat Tuesday Club weekly music-making sessions for young people; his wife, Hannah Deeble, who already has the role of General Manager; and Sally’s son, Elliot Lampitt, who is Festival Co-ordinator.

The organisation will see some further changes as James Weaver, joined by William Bunch, takes the Sonics strand in a new direction as an independent enterprise.

HFT has burgeoned over 16 years from a one-nighter on Mardi Gras evening, not only to a five-day musical showcase that brings in huge crowds of both residents and visitors but also to a year-round programme that champions local talent. By making its main offerings free, HFT has ensured that everyone can join in celebrating their shared musical heritage regardless of financial status. As Sally observed in a closing commentary, the festival has become a reflection of the town – “a diverse and eclectic mix of talent and culture”.

She and Adam added: “It has been a tremendous privilege to play a part in the growth and evolution of HFT. While we will certainly miss the energy and excitement of orchestrating the festival and the year-round activities, we believe that now is the right time to pass the torch to a new team that can carry it forward into the future.”