As ever, I only decided today to attend, as my diary can be a bit hectic.

And again, as ever, had no problem booking accommodation for the nights I wanted. All done on line in a matter of minutes. I have always been bemused by those speaking of everywhere being full. Not my experience. The punch cards that hotels provide mean no parking issues either.

I noticed that although there have been many years where work prevented me going, it's forty years since my first Whitby this year. There were a small number of vocal negative voices back then. It seems to have become a tradition. I bloody love it, all of it. If you are wondering whether to go, do so. Normal people have a right good time. Miserable ones occasionally tap their feet in time to the music, under the tables where you can't see them...

No pint with Dave the Gnome this year? Ah well..