Mrs Duck's last post neatly sums it all up.

The number of Catters in or within easy travelling distance of Yorkshire is such that any gathering there will be well attended.

Larger hostels ie those which have more than 1 room suitable for music and singing are the more expensive hostels and hence need a large attendance to make cost modest - if in fact that is what is required.

We can indeed book in the near future for 2003 but a 25% non returnable deposit is still required 2 weeks from booking (£150 approx)

Might I suggest the first requirement is a date which does not clash with too many other events although someone will undoubtedly be disappointed and have to make a choice.

As far as YHA is concerned February seems best although less popular hostels are available in March also.

Rent a hostel scheme booklet is available free from 0870 241 2253 or e-mail: rentahostel@yha.org.uk should anyone wish to get a copy of the new booklet when it comes out and give us the benefit of another viewpoint.

If the feeling is that 2003 is too far away to contemplate than I will quite happily belt up!!

Cheers GB