Seeing as he has already been mentioned - A VERY young Pete Morton was one of the best things I saw at Swinton many years ago. It was apparant from the word go that he was destined for greater things. I still haven't forgiven him for getting me hooked on a band called Danish Dia Delight on a radio show he ran though:-)

Coals and Newcastle as well - I am now living up in the frozen North from Monday to Friday and have had the great pleasure of attending the Bridge Folk Club on a Monday night. Far from being cliquey I was made very welcome on the first singers night I attended and was then absolutely blown away by the students of Newcastle Universities Folk degree on the 'Rising Stars' night. If this lot go out into the world beyond accademia with th esame attitude they have now we need have no concerns for the future of folk:-)

Still not had a single 'best thing' though. It would probably be a close toss-up between Anthony John Clarke, Martin Marthy and Stanley Acrrington! Best folk releated band I have seen is no contest though - Runrig at Manchester Appollo.

Cheers

Dave