I first started to listen to traditional singing when I moved to Athlone, in the Irish Midlands, many years ago. At the time, there was a local folk club run by a guy called Tony Holleran - from whom I learned many a song. He in turn was a great friend and fan of Phil - whom I subsequently got to know independently. One way or another, the pair of them are resposnible for a good part of my repertoire! Not sure either of them would accept the blame, mind you.

Regards

p.s. Tony was also involved in Mrs. Flannery's Folk club in Tullamore, not far from Athlone! Hence the crack..