I managed to catch the aforesaid Lord and Master performing with the Grace Darling Singers at Chadkirk Chapel last Saturday night in a delightful performance of West Gallery singing. The setting of this 14th Century chapel reached on foot at the end of a dark lane in the Goyt valley seemingly miles from anywhere was perfect for these songs. And coming out of the chapel at the end felt just like carollers returning home as described by Thomas Hardy in one of the readings at the concert.

The concert was recorded by Grandpa Bernard for the Grace Darling Singers, so those of you who missed it may get another chance.

Anyway I wanted to add that owing to prior commitments (the staff Xmas bash) I can't come the the Singaround this week, so Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year to all the regulars (and irregulars!) in the Snug!

Matthew