Thank you Ossonflafs for your stout support Sir. That means a lot to me.

I never thought I would stir up such a hornet's nest with my question, but I am thrilled that I did because the standard of contributions and debate on here is fantastic!

I asked the question in all innocence and with no intention to be contentious or contraversial but I knew that I might have to duck behind the parapet occasionally!

"There are many wise and well considered opinions on this thread from all kinds of performers.I think it's a valid question and a wise decision to ask it" (thanks 'Joybell'),
And as 'Susan of DT' said: "I am pleased at the supportive tone on this thread"
I agree with Joybell and Susan 100%. I am learning so much from people who know the folk scene inside out and live it and breathe it every day of their lives.
The tone has indeed been mostly supportive and I am delighted by the generosity of encouragement and the many ideas and duggestions received on ways to learn songs, use prompt cards,how to sing from and not to a song book , use of repetition etc etc etc.

Thankyou everyone for your contributions to this thread.

You have doubly enforced im my mind what a brilliant bunch of people folk people are!!

Chris