Well if you bloody think me and Booker can ever be accused of being elitist then you don't know us!

I totally agree with Les's remarks above

Jude did another fine job, it isnt easy to MC singarounds keep everything democratic, help out, take glasses to the bar,find lost words, newcomers welcomed, think up games and other diversions ~ come out after a week without voice, pissed and broke!!

I seem to think I posted the fact that the room is the best venue to sing and has the most friendly and welcoming knowledgeable set of people you can meet at any festival ~ they aint elitist but they are by and large very good singers with many many years of experience.

Above all they are keen to encourage others, new and not so new singers, and I and I know John Booker would feel very very annoyed at anyone who derided the efforts of singers who may be perceived to be 'not so good'I have seen this happen and feel that such performances are probably more valid than those of accepted good singers ~ think of the 'Widows Mite', songs sung from the heart are extremely valid as are those sung with undoubted ability

If Betsy got the feeling he was being prevented from entering, then I can only apologise personally ~ but reiterate that the policy as I understand it is that the room is small and needs one big ball to rip the walls out ! (yes I know it might be a good idea Betsy!!)

I have on many occasions not gone in because it is a small room and there are plenty of other things going on elsewhere

If I have gone over the top then tough; what do you call folk song and folk singers, are they not concerned with people, ordinary people with feelings and opinions expressed through song!!

Can we lay this low now ~ little chance I feel

Ray Padgett