I remember the first time I sang in public - I was scared shitless. It was 1976 and the unfortunate audience were at a folk club in Newport Pagnell, about 150 miles away from where I live. Nobody knew me, I was a complete stranger. If I cocked up at least I wouldn't see any of the audience ever again.

I sang 'Rawtenstall Annual Fair' - a pleasantly bawdy, entertaining song. Although I didn't think I performed at all well I received very warm applause. Whether the audience realised I was nervous, I don't know.

After that applause I didn't stop singing along (VERY loudly!) to all the choruses. Since then I've not shut up. The last three Sdimouth Festivals has seen my sat in the Anchor Middle Bar at every session, singing at any opportunity. I now describe my singing as being 'shouting, sort of in tune'. I'm off to the Wail in Dorset this weekend - they won't shut me up either!

Once you've sung in public for the first time you'll have a huge confidence boost and I'm sure like me, you'll never shut up singing!

I don't know where you live, but if you're around South Manchester at any time then please give me a shout.

Best wishes,

John