We were there once many years ago (along with Tom Munnelly) and enjoyed it very much, but I have always worried that it would turn into a folkie event and spoil the local nature of it - hope this is not the case.

Well I am a folkie and I've been going thirty+ years. A definition of a local used to be one who could get in at the back door before the pub doors opened and stayed afterwards after they called time. After a few years the local MP invited me in through the back door. So I suppose I am a local. Actually I can see a carolling pub from my house and when fitter I always walked there. It is certainly part of my tradition and I would honestly say the "local nature" is only changing the nicest possible way Jim.

Always a problem with such a high profile event, but I have been fortunate enough to see the tradition change in front of me. I can remember three songs added to the tradition - by determined locals - who for example having been introduced to "Portugal" at the various bi-ennial carols festivals. So they brought it into the repertoire by learning the words, persuading the organist to learn it etc. etc. And the lead singers tend not to be folkies and would not go to any other "folk" event apart from the carols. Some of the locals sing at hunt suppers and shepherds meets.

In addition I have seen the repertoire change in another way, - with a change of organist a song called Swaledale came into the repertoire because when asked to sing, Albert Broadhead sang his favourite song. You'll find it listed in the latest books as the Swaledale "Carol".

I can also see words of carols changing. And there are lots of carols rarely sung - some still being written etc. etc. etc. Carols at the less high profile places have been revived and have used their own local carols, Grenoside and Thorpe Hesley for example.

I would suggest it is a perfect example of your definition as listed above and thanks for that - it made me think a bit.

Of course all the locals are miserable bastards and don't bother welcoming people - so it ain't much fun anyway. They only have Euro-fizz on sale and they put the prices up charging strangers 0.50p extra if they recognise them. Food? You'll be lucky? Lager? Served warm. Crisps - well you can get them if the landlord remembered to go to the Cash and Carry. Wine? Well he opened a bottle last Xmas so it won't have gone off yet.

Don't bother coming - you wont enjoy it.