I used to go to a brilliant Singaround led by Tony Wilson at a pub near the Tunnel Entrance in Liverpool on a Saturday night. Tony had been in a group called the Bothy Folk who started the legendary Bothy Folk Club in Southport, which continues to this day.

The Singaround was in a small back room and some of the seats were cinema sits in sets of 4 with tip-up parts. I guess this was around 1967 or so.

A little later we discovered Jones's Ale in a pub, I think called the Railway in Chester. That was led by Trevor, who's second name I have forgotten Dave and Mike Jenkins and quite a few others.

Both these clubs were essentially traditional and people gave a song each from where they were sitting. The hat went round and guests were booked now and again. The quality in both was exceptional.

Both clubs evolved, though not much, through other venues and other residents.

Our Singaround, First Wednesday of the Month at the Beech, Chorlton is based on this model. Although clearly we are not weekly and we make no collection or have guests.

Chiz

L in C