Steve, I cannot dispute anything you say in defense of Jim and have made the same points myself before. Jim's knowledge of folk music is encyclopedic. His contribution is phenomenal. His passion is unquestioned. What I can dispute is its bearing on the point in question, which is modern day folk clubs. I have a friend who is as knowledgeable about the long bow as Jim is about folk music. I would not dream of relying on that knowledge in a battle against nuclear missiles or computer controlled drone attack bots.

Jim's contribution is without question. Which makes it all the more difficult. It is like having to let go of the butler of 60 years service who knew more about the running of the house that anyone but now, to coin a phrase, cannot find his arse with both hands. Let alone the key to the pantry.

DtG