Noreen and I left Manchester at about 2pm and arrived in Llanfair at about 6. Llanfair itself is one of the pretties villages I have ever come across, nestled in a welsh valley like something out of a storybook. The first 'catters we met were LTS, the shark and the bratling (instantly recognisable).

Checked into the Pippins B&B – which is also storybook-esque – lace curtains and pretty cloths on the tables. (The most wonderful homemade food too – we've booked provisionally for next year!).

Made our way to The Red Lion (a two minute stagger) at 7pm (ish). Welcomes, snogs and lots of "so YOU'RE (insert mudcat name here) – you look EXACTLY LIKE/SO DIFFERENT TO how I imagined" A feeling of warmth and excitement. The night started with Bill Sables, Sam Pirt, Skipjack and Dalek playing some excellently superb jigs and reels with a few songs from Bron (also excellent singer). After that, we went round the room, each 'catter taking their turn to do their piece – either a song or a tune.

I must be a bit of a sad bastard 'cos I actually took notes – I didn't want to forget any of it – I frequently suffer from CRS and there was so much to remember!

This is what I wrote of the songs from that night – forgive me if I missed any out.

Bron 'Jing-a-ling'
LTS – 'Sixteen Stone'
Skipjack – 'Mcalpine's Fusiliers'

Then there was a speech by Bron telling us about plans for the weekend - ceilidhs, walks, lunchtime singarounds etc. Bron asked for a volunteer to organise a collection for the barrel of beer, which she had ordered for the Ceilidh. I offered to do this (don't know why – I think I was overcome by a wave of generosity inspired by the mood). I did not find out 'til the next day that there was no need for the collection. Someone, who asked to remain incognito, had paid for it! A great big heartfelt 'THANKYOU' to that someone…..

Next came Morticia and Gomez singing 'The Bright Lights'
Bron – 'Crazy Man Michael'
Patrish 'Cowboy Outift'
Trevor 'Polly on the Shore'
Micca 'The Hash My Father Scored'
Keith (Local?)– 'A beautiful haunting Spiritual'
Jackie – (Local?) – 'When I was In My Prime'

I went for a natter in the next room at this point, came back to hear people calling on Simon to sing another Blues number – which he did 'Highway Blues'.

Please note, I have not said so and so's rendition of 'x' was amazing. This is because it was all amazing, each contributor with their own style and unique way of performing.

I just know I've missed loads out! Also I am a singer, rather than a musician, so unfortunately I can't say names of tunes. Altogether though, that first night was a mix of slow ballads, comedy songs, chorus songs (which were accompanied by a fine 'cats chorus of enthusiastic harmonies!). An electric atmosphere!

That's just the first night – I have to go now!

Cheers,

Catrin

Highlight of the night? The atmosphere!