I've been thinking about what you said Richard.

For myself, I'm not upset if people tell me what I do isn't folk music. One's influences are as much about what you reject as what you take on board, and if some people feel the influence of American music is so pernicious that they have to try and eliminate it to connect with a truly British muse - so be it.

You see, I've been able to work as a musician for a large part of my life doing all kinds of different acts, making various kinds of records when the chance presented itself. I've diversified. Being a professional musician wasn't a first choice career for me.

I'm upset though for the people who gave everything for the folk club movement in this country - and ended up being excluded from the action for stylistic reasons. Despite being brilliant, like Jack Hudson. I think its monstrous.

In spite of all that, I still think folk music is the last best hope for all of us. And wherever your niche is, you should keep doing it.

PS Many thanks Bruce, it was nice to be included in such august company.