The traditional Carol season is about to start once again in the villages around Sheffield. For those unfamiliar with that tradition, it takes place mainly in pubs; the singers having been made unwelcome in churches back in the 19th century. Prior to that, the "West Gallery" style of singing was quite common; it now survives mainly in the South Yorkshire/ North Derbyshire region and in parts of the West Country; and in parts of the USA.
The Sheffield area tradition is particularly strong and well known (in great part due to Dr Ian Russell's efforts over the years) and, as in previous years, both the South Riding Folk Arts Network and Yorkshire Folk Arts will be publishing Pat Malham's listings of singing events on their websites.
The first version of the schedule can now be seen at