The Leeds gathering usually takes place in November. Organised by Des Hurley and Chris O'Malley it includes sessions, concerts, poetry and literature and films. I've was house MC in the early years, and it's grown in size and quality from strong beginnings.

The Leeds Gathering

There are regular and very good Irish sessions at The Chemic Tavern in Woodhouse, and The Pointer down near the old Roscoe - bothe, unfortunately, on a wednesday night (though the Pointer has moved a few times). There's no rivalry and some musicians go to both, it's a matter of pub size, really.

Peter Taylor's excellent event (see link above) takes place earlier - in September, and this first year forms part of the Celebrate Leeds (String O Beads' 800th birthday). Again I'm involved, in a purely minor advisory capacity (Peter is a neighbour and an old family friend).

We hope we may develop the festival in future if things go well this year. It's not specifically Irish, and will include something of everything, as it aims to celebrate some of the amazing folky talent we have in this city.

Please help to spread the word and make both gigs a huge success, so both can grow. See you in the autumn!

Tom