henryp. In my view, the custom or whatever would remain with the local community to whom it has always belonged. They, after all, will be here long after we are gone, and hopefully still rushbearing or wassailing or whatever.

Who should be sacrificed? That's a moot point. Normally, I would say the third group. After all, if your presence is actually getting in the way of the custom, there's not much point in hanging around. However, I can think of one custom where it's suddenly become fashionable to be seen at. Dunno why, although it's possible that media attention is to blame. But over the past few years people have started pouring in from neighbouring towns and villages, with the result that you can't get into any of the local pubs for love or gold.

That would be acceptable, even allowing for the admittedly usually amiable drunks and the stench of barbecues all over town. But the number of people who attend the actual ceremony has not changed one iota since this influx began. In other words, they mostly go for the booze and the burgers, not the custom. (Thinks. Anyone who has ever tried to find a decent session and a pint at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will know exactly what I mean.)

So I'd say 'new' locals should certainly be encouraged, but they should be encouraged to take a pride in their customs, and to take an active part.

BTW 1., as I've said before, I'm not blaming the unthanks so much as the media mekons who think the only way they can get ratings is by sticking a 'celebrity' in front of whatever the programme is supposed to be about.

BTW 2., I absolutely love Geordies. They are warm hearted, friendly and very funny. A bit like scousers on helium in fact.