Jim is superb - I remember, LesB, when I first saw him - very much as you describe, except that, after a couple of songs, he paused, got his flask of tea out of his bag and said "I generally have a drop of tea around about this time, so if you'll just excuse me for a moment..." Wonderful character and great performer.

I also notice that he is always very smartly turned out when he is working. I recall a group of T-shirted, tankarded singers once slightly taking the mick out of him for being so dressed up (don't think they knew he was a booked act - not that that would have made any difference). Jim explained that when he was learning his 'trade', the old singers in th epubs were always smartly dressed, so he feels it is only right to do justice to their memory, and turn out in a similar state.

I've had several long conversations with him, on subjects as varied as The Wearing of Hats in 20th/21st century Britain to the tragic deaths of the cocklers in Morecambe Bay. He is one of the nicest people I have ever met and a fabulous performer.

But he can take one by surprise on first seeing his act - I agree!