"How is it we never see these people at traditional customs when there's no tv cameras about?"

I almost didn't respond as this thread has degenerated into the kind of thing which gives mudcat a bad name. For the record, Rachel and Becky have been going to Greatham on boxing day, Ryton carols and Allendale at new year since they were born. Their dad, George, was one of the Redcar Sword dancers when they revived the Boxing day dance and play in 1967 and is still goes to Greatham every year 45 years later. All the family have been heavily involved in folk dance and song traditions for very many years.

I always think it is wise to be aware of the facts before making unsubstantiated claims on a public forum.