'They "bet" the success of their folk clubs, folk festivals and so on on a bunch of lesser talents. For the life of me I cannot see why people would want to do that.'

Well I think access to public funds has a certain amount to do with it.

Well I think you are seriously off your trolley. What public funds? A folk club with public funds? Some of the bigger folk festivals might get some help with things like road closures not being charged for and other payment in kind. Larger festivals do get grants of course - but they are regarded as an attraction to bring in people. Hiring low quality talent is not the way to do that!

I went to the Sheffield Session Festival over Easter. Public funds - nil.

On the Saturday I went to a folk club. Public funds - nil. I am off to a folk club next week. Public funds - nil.

I am off to Shepley Festival later this month. Public funds - nil.

I have belonged to a dance team for over thirty years. We have been all over Europe and also to South America. Public funds - nil.

I don't know who is getting this public subsidy Al, but I can assure you I have never seen a penny of it. And yes I have applied.

I have helped to organise or been a part of the Sheffield City Giants for over ten years. They belong to the City of Sheffield. In three trips to Spain, two other trips to Europe and a trip to Canada - all representing the City of Sheffield - have a guess Al. You got it Al. Fuck all.

But the logic of putting on lesser talent to get public subsidy still escapes me. You obviously don't think much of the public.

And do not bother Tony and Una on my behalf. I only mentioned it two years later because you accused me of bullying you. People may have forgotten that there was another side to the story. The complaints were about their choice of music. They can probably tell you who they played.

But I accept full responsibility for that. I know better now.