Charley, I wouldn't say that pub gigs (without PA!) are my favourite places to sing, but the responses from those present (mostly non-folkies) were generally excellent - and that wasn't necessarily using particularly well-known or rousing songs. The atmosphere at the festival really is friendly and welcoming. There was a good variety of performers and styles, and there were none that I saw that were of less than good quality.

There's a real ale tent on the West Pier right by the main stage, all the venues are within easy walking distance of the Pier (unless you're carrying very heavy instrument cases!), and the festival costs the punters nothing - what it costs the rate-payers of Scarborough is another matter, but presumably it brings in some holiday-makers, which is why it's funded by the Town Council. Personally, I think it would be worth their while to have collectors out amongst the large audiences for the Pier shows, and perhaps in the pubs - but that's not up to the likes of me.

Stallion, I'm not going to make any guesses as to why you're not taking part, as I don't know you (I don't think) and I'm not party to the whys and wherefores of Richard's booking policy. Maybe if you got involved in some of the open sessions, it might be worth your while. If those running them like what you do, they'll probably tell the powers that be, and maybe in the future you'd be on the bill. I know Richard was on a very tight budget this year, which I imagine is why Hughie Jones wasn't invited.

Dick, that spontaneous session sounds like just what we could have done with, but after our Leeds Hotel spot, we went down to the Pier for the massed shanty sing, as our glorious leader requested. Or rather, Tom did - I think if I'd sung much more that day, I would have had no voice at all on Sunday!

We really did have a great weekend though, as did everyone we spoke to late on the Sunday. Tom's right - book for next year now - that's only your accommodation though, don't forget. The rest is FREE!

Barbara