I'd be interested in this too.
Key features such as rhythm, structure, themes and so-on.

For those interested in working in 'the traditional idiom' I think Leveller made a good point about where he draws his own inspiration from. I'm sure anyone can write about anything they fancy, but a good start point would no doubt be to look at the local history and stories heralding from your local area.
I think Demdyke featuring Sailor Ron, Ross Campbell, Rapunzel and Suibhne of this forum do just that: Demdyke