Hiya Graveyard - I hope I didn't criticise the two lads who run things - my feelings were aroused by some of the messages containing elements of cliques and other things ( however natural) which seem on occasions to ruin folk clubs and gatherings.
The other thing which colours my judgement is, it was an absolute MUST to be singing at Keswick every weekend 40 Years ago - we all simply gathered in a pub.
I have fond memories (albeit faulty) - I can't remember if it was called the Packhorse or the Woolpack !!!! Mick Sheehan from Darlington was also a highly rated performer there.
These were the days when Black Velvet Band etc. were almost "new" songs, and Jolly Plough Boy (Off to Dublin in the green etc.) didn't upset anyone - as the troubles hadn't yet started.
One weekend we arrived - no climbing boots allowed in the pub - so the vast amount of the normal audience was disqualified. They had put down new carpets on the stone and wooden floors and ponsified the place - concentrating on selling food. Happy memories, but such is progress Eh?