Thou talkest crap, oh sufferer - at least as far as around here (Essex, Herts, Cambridge, Suffolk, N London)goes.

Look out especially for local lad Clive Carroll, a highly talented guitarist and five-string banjo player. He's touring with John Renbourn, which gives the best of both eras!

There is some amazing young talent, primarily instrumentalists, but a few singers, too. They do not disdain to sit in with us boring old farts, and frequently teach us a thing or two. It's a two-way street, I well remember the generosity of such as Alex Campbell and Diz Disley when I was starting out, and try to emulate their example, even if it's only in a small way.

There are younger members of the audience, even for those you dismiss as "same old acts", and there are many "oldies" and club organisers who actively encourage younger artists.

RIP Trad Folk indeed! There are probably as many young people playing traditional music as there ever have been, and they deserve a platform. That is, or should be, the function of Folk Clubs.

Open YOUR mind, sufferer, and say "aah".

Good morning to you,too.

Alan