An interesting compilation of voices on the BBC programme "Front Row. Billy Bragg, Simon Emerson, Martin Carthy about the "Imagined Village" which goes on tour.

Needless to say the presenter felt he had to mention Aran sweaters and men with beards. Don't they realise the only people who perpetuate this myth is the BBC itself?

And he described Martin Carthy as someone who had stood on a stage alone with his guitar for the past forty years. Clearly never heard of Steeleye Span (or that Martin was in it) or Brass Monkey.

Billy Bragg seemed to think that the Watersons came before Martin Carthy.

I feel another rant coming on.........hang on there are some men with white coats.