it was a fantastic night - lots of good songs & choruses & company. Just a few things marred the end of the evening - first, Bob's camera case was not to be found. No doubt by now, the temporary custodian has plans to contact the shanty master in the morning.

Secondly, a few folks decided on a final drink, so off we headed to the nearest pub. We were a small sedate company, Charley Noble, JudyB, JennyO, Chris Maltby, Robin Connaughton & me.

I was last in line as we arrived at the nearest pub, formerly an inner city workingman's pub, now trendy. I couldn't hear what Judy was saying to the big bloke (security/bouncer) but they started heading in. I vaguely noticed Charley had removed his cap & then the bouncer said I had to remove my beret, pointing to a list at the door. No beanies or caps.

Apparently this is a security thing - the camera can't see our faces if we wear fisherman's caps or berets!!! I can understand notices in banks asking patrons to remove motorcycle helmets, but a beret!!! & as I come from 2 lines of stubborn (my father & my mother's mother) I said I wouldn't enter & would wait outside.

Everyone followed me out & we stood around for a while then headed for another pub. Same notice there, so it wasn't just one publican's rule. So we sat outside (hats are ok outside!)

I've downloaded all my photos & can't post the Mudcatter group pic which shows us wearing the offensive hats cos MyOpera is down for a grease & oil change or whatever they do to websites (wash the pixels?) so you will all have to wait!

what is the world coming to if a hat wearer is asked to remove her hat - I never go anywhere without a hat - I still can't believe it.

anyway off to bed, I have a tradesman ringing my intercom in about 7 hours, which gives me less than 5.30 hours sleep, if I get to bed immediately (which I probably won't)

sandra