How awful for Alan. I play English concertina and Ive had mine for 40 years or more. It would be like losing an old friend if it went missing.

I must take some pics of my 'new' one before I go to Ireland. Both mine are Lachenal 48 key. Onew is c1880's the other 1930's. I took up playing again 5 years ago and have surprised myself with my ability to learn tunes.

Met Alan at a workshop day 'up north' the other year. I acted as chauffeuse to my pal Dave Harris, who ran the bodhran workshop. I went on the melodeon workshop with my concertina and learned how to put some bounce into tunes.

I looked for years for 'Bread and Fishes', by Alan, then once I started using the web I surfed for Fylde FF and emailed Alan. Hey Presto I have a copy of his song book.

Hope you track down the rascals Alan.

fliss xx