Hello. Sorry if the title of this thread appears to be a bit down and negatory but from the standpoint of a UK folk scene fan I feel that in the current economic climate in the UK that I have to ask the question (and yet fear that you will answer in the affirmative!)

- Have the good times gone? I worry that this year we will all notice a significant decline in attendance at the many Folk Festivals and happenings in the UK as people generally tighten their belts and commit to fewer events due to financial constraints.

I am already aware of some of my key folk buddies who work in the public sector whose jobs are under 'review' and could possibly lose their jobs and therefore go to far fewer festivals than before.

I do like the odd concert and stuff but admit to prefering "The Fringe" happenings at festivals around the UK with the glorious and often unplanned and magical sessions of folk music and song.

Trouble is that many of my buddies who like the same,and like me, can't afford a full season ticket at festivals, yet add much to the atmosphere and colour of many festivals, will feel the pinch even more so this year and will increasingly trawl the streets in fewer numbers to find a session that has half a chance of taking off!

And what about our American friends crossing the pond to visit our festivals and adding so much to our enjoyment, will they also be watching their dollars and be staying away?

Please tell me that I worry too much and that it won't be so!

PLEASE!

God bless ya.

Chris