We visited the Plough last Tuesday, and the sad tale was related to us by Gil - he was obviously quite depressed by the situation. A member of the Brewery management team was just on her way out of the Plough, and we asked if there was any point making some protest then and there. Gil asked us not to make waves; he's obviously concerned he could be put in a tricky situation.

I don't envy him - can you imagine the flack he might receive when he tests his powers of diplomacy during the folk week!? As soon as anyone pipes up to strum a chord or sing a note he's got to ask them to shut up or leave.

I will continue to support Gil and the Plough, but during folk week I'm afraid it will just be somewhere to meet everyone else (as ever) but then to move on elsewhere after the 1st drink.

I doubt that any representations to "Got the Humph" Smith will meet with anything other than disdain, but to stand any chance at all any letters would need to be very polite and extremely diplomatic. Anyone coming on strong to this guy will get instant brush-off.