What John Rouse could perhaps do, if he really wants to come is persuade his dad to bring him along till half time. he'll still have a rattling good night and some sleep. When I was a child I seemed to manage without sleep better than I do nowadays.

Seriously though, children are always welcome at folk clubs, with the possible exception of babes in arms who cry all the time. Most of them however always seemed to have been dragged along by a parent, convinced that his or her protege is the next Tom Paxton or Bob Dillon. You don't see many of them emulating Fred Jordan, mores the pity. (No money in it).

When I was running a Scout Troop we met on Friday nights because of homework and school factors. Suggesting other nights, because I might occasionally have liked to go to a club on a Friday, was too unpopular to have worked.I would suggest that parents look for clubs at the weekend. Most singers clubs tend to meet on less popular nights when there is less competition.

If John is serious about this, why doesn't he start his own club. Lots of people would be only to pleased to come along now and again for a good cause.

Save me a seat on Tuesday please.