WHEN fans of Chalke Valley History Festival heard last year that long-time sponsors the Daily Mail were ending the relationship, there was inevitably concern – how would the festival fare without this major, high-profile supporter? The answer has been a resounding “very well, thank you.”

With a renewed focus, a slightly changed name, a wonderful programme of talks and events, thousands of tickets booked and blessed with the best weather so far this summer, Chalke History Festival 2024 was a glorious success, “wonderful,” according to one visitor. “It was a truly remarkable experience filled with insightful talks and engaging discussions,” she said.

The challenge with big festivals – whether you are talking about Glastonbury or Hay or WOMAD or Chalke – when there are many fascinating or exciting events on at the same time across a vast campus, is deciding which to choose. Here are just a few that we enjoyed.

The Rest is History – Live! – Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, who present the popular podcast (now nearing 640 episodes) entertained a sold-out ;audience with their evident on-stage chemistry and playful banter. They discussed highlights and lowlights from the podcast, including a humorous low point that involved Tom’s comments about Dr Valverde during an episode on the Costa Rican civil war – this led to some lively feedback from Dr Valverde’s descendants. A particular highlight is their own extensive research which brings a unique excitement to their podcast. Their genuine enthusiasm for new discoveries was palpable and infectious.

How to Win an Information War :The Propagandist Who Outwitted Hitler – Peter Pomerantsev’s talk was both fascinating and well-received by the near-capacity audience. His new book, How to Win an Information War, explores the life of Denis Sefton Delmer, who ran a black propaganda radio station during World War II. Delmer’s broadcasts, featuring the fictional “Der Chef,” criticised Nazi officials and resonated with many Germans. Pomerantsev drew parallels between Delmer’s tactics and modern-day propaganda, particularly in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The dialogue between Pomerantsev and presenter Michael Neiberg highlighted the persistent challenges of managing narratives in conflicts. It was an engaging interactive session with the audience, enjoying the cool comfort of the glamorous Spiegeltent. There was much laughter after a question about how propaganda could be used to counter the bad press that Joe Biden had received the day before, about his first television debate.

A Turning Point in History? Russian-born journalist and author Peter Pomerantsev, Ali Ansari, professor of modern history and an expert on the Middle East at the University of St Andrews, and Nabila Ramdani, a French journalist with particular expertise in Algeria, and moderator Helen Thompson, professor of political economy at Cambridge, offered some deeply thought-provoking answers to the question whether 2024 would be remembered as a turning point in history. Ramdani emphasised the importance of the upcoming French elections and the dangers posed by the rise of the ultra-right. Pomerantsev provided a nuanced view on AI and propaganda, avoiding a wholly pessimistic outlook. Helen Thompson kept the discussion balanced and calm, even during heated moments between Ramadan and Ansari over the Israel-Palestine situation. Despite its somber tone, the talk was inspiring and offered substantial food for thought.

Overall, the festival was an outstanding event enjoyed by thousands, from excited school children to visitors of all ages, who came for the dramatic historic re-enactments, the stimulating talks and the excellent food. An army of informed and helpful volunteers played their part in ensuring that the whole week was a triumph, reinforcing the festival’s reputation as the place where history comes alive. FC

Pictured are: The audience in the Spiegeltent for the discussion on how to win an information war; Peter Pomerantsev, Ali Ansari and Nabila Ramdani in the big marquee for the discussion, A Turning Point in History; scenes around the re-enactment area and fairground.

GW photographs