I fear there is a whole load of folk song lost, or misparked in the memories of veterans. As a kid in the 50's I can recall sheltering with my mother, and other mums and kids in the clubhouse kitchen of a certain Kentish Rugby Club, on Saturday Night whilst the singing went on. Yes I learnt some songs that got me a clip round the ear, when I repeated them.

They weren't just the bawdy, the A25 Song was one of them.

I was pleased to find that in the in Mudcat,

Mother's attitude, and that of the other wives was simple (This being in the mid 50's) They survived, they are entitled to sing.

The man we all called Uncle Tony, who taught me a cleaned up version of the A 25 Song, survived 3 years of flying Swordfish (String bags) including the sorties on the "Bismarck" from HMS "Victorious".

It was only later that I realised what that meant.

Some months ago I started this thread Click Here Now this may sound funny but I think we all have a duty to record and collect these songs before, and I quote Ralph McTell, " Memories fade, like the Medal ribbons that he wore "

Gareth