Agree, Vince, everyone should pay; and everyone should be allowed a go in a folk club, otherwise the folk club becomes elitist (which is an oxymoron, in my book).

Problems however arise when those who had a go, but were not good enough, later demand regular "goes" and generally expect equal rights with the better singers. This should not be allowed, because we must consider the wishes of the audience; without an audience we are dead in the water...

Unfortunately too many floorsingers don't hold an accurate perception of their own worth, and expect to be given equal merit or even preference because of their longevity, regular appearance, club committee membership, baking prowess etc etc. And that's when the fun starts:-(