Dear Ivor Biggin, sorry about the delay. Computer trouble, plus the Mudcat seems often to be down, possibly due to time differences, on the occasions I try. My difficulty with spelling McColl? Is it MacColl. I couldn't be bothered to look it up.

How do I know he wrote a lot of good songs? I've sung some of them, including "The first time ever" that you mentioned. I've also heard his recordings, including the Radio Ballads, and I've heard a lot of other singers sing his stuff. Sorry if I confused you, I meant I'd never heard him LIVE or seen an interview. How do I know Peggy liked him? Just basing my opinion on the words of "The first time ever' and their long association. A couple of replies to you friend (girl friend?) PSF. I don't consider 'Pom' a derogatory term, and I am one. Not a very PC one, though. I do agree with PSF about the Punch the Horse posts, but I can't really understand them, anyway. Also, if an Aussie has a criminal among their ancestors, it is very likely to be an ENGLISH criminal. Happy New Year to you both.