Vic, Edith Fowke recorded Mr Abbott in the summer of 1957, so Bert Lloyd would very likely have heard the recordings. I just referenced my old friend Ian Robb's 1976 LP as it's the only revival recording of the song I've heard (Ian and Margaret got a lot of help from Edith when making the record, I understand). I suppose I should have said "the only version I know originates from O. J. Abbott" rather than "it comes from...", since there are clearly other traditional versions. Anyway, it's definitely traditional, not a composition of Bert's!

Sorry I missed you at Bradfield by the way - I was looking forward to hearing your Johnny Doughty presentation, but was at Newark Traditions Festival and only made it for the Sunday night closing session!