Thanks again people. Shantymanuk, great stuff, I'll try and keep it in mind. I have several public performances under my belt and can readily identify with the "you sound best when your happy" line. Thanks for the good wishes.
I haven't got any thraot sweets yet. I'll try some out but am worried about numbing my throat and not really being able to feel what's going on. I might ask a herbalist friend for a liquorice root drink, that might do the job (but it will make my beer taste AWFUL!)
THanks again every one.
Paul