Banjiman

It's not about the size of the conurbation but the will to make something happen, publicity and a group of like minded people. Oh, and finding a viable venue and a big slice of luck.

Indeed it is, but there are some people who don't seem to realise that. I'm surprised that, let's call it Mudcaster, can't come up with the necessary.

...do you have many youngsters (under 45 (well I am 43!)) as audience? We are starting to get a few but I'm looking for tips to attract more.

Alas, no. I forgot to mention local heroes Too Many Strings (booked twice) who brought in a younger following but they did not return.

It could be that the days of folk clubs are passing. After all, they are a product of the revival not of ancient tradition. Perhaps today's yoof will find their own way. For me, the intimacy and immediacy of a small venue offers a magic that the concert (which has its own appeal) can't match. Maybe it's something that only appeals to the middle-aged. Of course, the yoof will be middle-aged one day. I hope I'm still around to see what happens.