FolkieDave, thanks very much for confirmation re Coal Aston. I thought it still happened but got conflicting info!

I had heard about the Beeston (Notts)carols - think they emanate from the huge Methodist church on High Rd just round the corner from where I spent my first 5 years.

Don't get over to Beeston as much as I used to as my mum, who lived up the road at Bramcote, passed away earlier this year. What trips I have done have tended to be to the Victoria pub next to Beeston station - no carols but plenty of music, good food, beer and trains - recommended but parking can be dicey, and remember to turn your mobile off!