There are a number of community radio stations that do folk music programmes. Of the ones I have heard, ALL tend to play a better selection of music Mike Harding.

This is not Mike's fault but that of the remit he is given by the BBC.

I see no problem with an "industry" myself.

Those not involved in it would be appalled at the riders some of their well loved bohemian "we're not in it for the money" folk singers have on their contracts with their employers. A well known, nay, legendary British singer who has worked all his life in the folk world has enforcers who bully backstage while he chills out in his dressing room.

I have no idea who the poster is talking about with catering riders and backstage antics. At some festivals the notion of a dressing room would be hilarious!

From personal experience, Vin Garbutt's catering rider was two pints of weak bitter and at an all "Waterson" concert at Sidmouth, Mike Waterson offered to pay for his own beer when asked if he wanted a drink.

After 40 years involvment with folk music at all sorts of levels I have never met any artist who has been other than utterly pleasant.

My daughter has run artist liaison at major festivals. She will tell you exactly the same. Some are nicer than others. Some have human weaknesses - but I do not recognise your description.

It would be nice if instead of signing in as a guest you were brave enough to name the artist and how you "know" this. And your own name so we can judge the veracity of what you say would be nice.

I'm Dave Eyre.