I think the term 'Travelling people' rather than 'travellers' was used by Nick in his first posting. True Romanies, Gypsies, whatever you call them, have for many years (if not centuries) been known as 'travelling people' or 'travelling nation'. 'Travellers' ~ meaning 'new age hippies' is a fairly modern term and is usually derogatory, thus making the distinction necessary.

I seem to remember that Mally is either from, or is closely related to a Romany/Travelling family from Dorset (hence Nick's collecting of songs from the county). I grew up near their camp and we never had any trouble from them. They were quiet, courteous and tidy, unlike the travellers who descend on a large car park near my present home and turn it into a tip within hours of their arrival.

Mind you.. some of the residents can do that quite happily and not complain until they have to pay more council tax for clean-ups.

Hope that shines some light.....

LTS