Update!

Went in on Monday (armed with questions!) and had another practice. Mike Shaft seems to think my presentation style is OK, and he loves the music I've played so far, but this technical side is hard!! It's OK if everything is going smoothly, but any hiccup, and it really throws me! So I'm having another go on Wednesday evening next week. (Those slidey things Ralph - I now know they have to go in fast and come out slow - bit like sex really, isn't it?!!)

You're right Harry - it looks as if it's definitely going to be the 20th - Oldham may, and Bury definitely, will have play offs the previous week. It will all be made clear this weekend apparently!

The answer to almost all of your quesries was "no" - there's no funding for anything! I will have an Email address - probably something like 'folk@bbc.gmr etc' - I'll let you know next week. It will go out on the website eventually but the BBC bosses are in discussion about this at the moment because of Artists royalties. I will be available on 0161 628 2255 for around 30 mins. after each programme.

Friend of Longford Park (and other friend)- I know it's not much consolation, but in my practice run on Monday, I did mention your Day of Dance in my Diary Dates bit, so the thought was there!

Please keep the info coming in to me - you can always Email me at work - aobrien@nspcc.org.uk. If anyone wants to send me a demo CD I promise to listen to it, and give it some air time (is that the right word?)

Ali