For the benefit of those who haven't visited the Old Rose & Crown club, my take on the club is that it is one of the most friendly and inclusive clubs in the UK - and i have experienced a fair few!
Anyone who wants to join in with the Sauna in the Corner band is welcomed to play. They do so, as Kevin says, to give a certain ambience in the early minutes of the evening, and to fill some of the gaps in the interval. There is no way that they are precious or exclusive. If they have me playing with them, they must be a pretty tolerant bunch!
There are many really first-rate and nationally known performers who turn up on a regular basis to the club nights - Peta Webb, Lynn Heraud, Kitty Vernon are just three that spring to mind. They only get one song apiece too. So there is nothing wrong in Kevin alerting the potential visitor to the limitations on performance time for floor singers. I think it is much better knowing what you will get as a slot, rather than being told once you have arrived. At least you can sing your belter and hope to get an encore!
Kevin - we'll be visiting as soon as we get a free Thursday. Saw your famous little brother Gerry last week at Hitchin!