Nevertheless, sorry to say, I see the UK folk scene dying a death within 20 years. Anyone have any rescue plans?

The UK folk club scene may be dying - I am not sure. Well run folk clubs seem to survive OK.

The idea that the folk scene will die a death could only be writtten by someone walking around with blinkers.

Let me give you some examples. In the "hey-day" of folk clubs in the 60's/70's there were two or three melodeon players. Nationwide.

There are now two top class ones in Sheffield alone! Richard Arrowsmith and Matt Crum. Add all the others I see around and it is very lively. There were a few good fiddle players. We could form a symphony orchestra with quality fiddle players in Sheffield.

By the way, I can't understand why people pay to go to the Magpie's just so that they can chat with their mates or ring their friends on their mobiles. There are about five other venues within a few minutes walk that offer live music, including folky bands with free admission, so why stump up the price of a ticket?)

I can't understand it either. But then I can't understand why people buy expensive fizzy lager when there is a quality real ale on sale.