The new Hartlepool Folk Festival, 16 - 18 October, has a great strand of more traditional programming which Mudcatters may enjoy.

Performers include Benny Graham, Johnny Handle, Bert Draycott, Will Noble, George Unthank, Ed Pickford, Pete Wood, Thomas McCarthy, and young Irish musician and singer Glenda McCormack. Shanties come courtesy of The 3 Js and Three Sheets to the Wind.

Doc Rowe will present his archival films of the Copper Family to commemorate Bob Copper's centenary.

There is a celebration of Birtley Folk Club hosted by Brian & Doreen Henderson, as well as a screening of Death of a Miner, the BBC's 1967 film about Jack Elliott.

The Come All Ye Bold Miners concert will include a wealth of mining songs, and features many of the performers already mentioned, plus Dick Gaughan and Durham Miners Association Brass Band.

Everything takes place on the Hartlepool Headland, with its friendly village atmosphere and cosy pubs. Hope to see you there!