Hi Stricks, you mention the Southport / Ormskirk area, you are in luck one of the country's oldest folk clubs is held in the Blundel Arms pub Upper Aughton Rd, Southport, (see what's on for guests). We are just approaching our 36th year! There are two Morris teams in the area and we are starting a luchtime song & music session on the 1st Sat in the month at the Falstaff, King St, Southport. See www.bothyfolkclub.8m.com for background info. For instruments, in the North-West we have in addition to 'Hobgoblin' in Manchester, 'The Music Room'www.the-music-room.com in W Yorkshire, and a good place for guitars, 'Sounds Great', at Heald Green Nr Manchester Airport. Who have a good range of Taylors, but i'm sure all U.S.guitars are cheaper in the states. Of course you could buy a hand made Fylde, (Noth Cumbria)www. I hope this is of use to you. Cheers Les