> Heritage Weekend, Red Lion, Ash Brow, Newburgh, Parbold, Wigan WN8 7NG. Contact Trevor Banfield, tel 0151 430 0166. Artistes: Newburgh Ladies Morris + Singarounds + presentation of "A Mon Like Harry" by Mark Dowding

> Albion Hotel, Wallasey: Albion Folk Club: Singers Night

> Black Horse, St Helens: Irish Night

> Blues Bar, Crosby, Liverpool: Acoustic Engine Sunday Sociable 2pm

> Brian Boru Club, Ashton-in-Makerfield: Monthly Comhaltas instrumental session 3pm

> Captain Nelson Tavern, Maryport, Cumbria: Blues on Sunday 4pm

> Cross Keys, Uppermill: Singaround

> Cross Keys Inn, Chester: Raven Folk Club: Music & Song Session in the bar

> Crown Hotel, Garstang: Crown Folk Club: Singers Night

> Dillon’s Whistlin’ Jig, Stockport: Irish Trad Music Session

> Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Abbey Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5QR: Radio KFK (blues). Info (venue) 01229 821039

> Freeholders Arms, Lancaster: Singers on Sunday: Singaround

> Halfway House, Blackpool: Singaround

> Irish World Heritage Centre, 10 Queens Rd, Manchester M8 8UF:Celtic Vibes (web: www.celticvibes.co.uk). Info 0161 205 4007

> Jackson’s Pit, Oldham: Acoustica! Open Mic hosted by Darren Poyzer

> Junction, Rainford: Wooden Horse Folk Club: Singers night

> Lamb, Halliwell Rd, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime St, Liverpool L1 1JE: Lord of the Dance. Enquiries 0151 708 3232. Box Office 0870 606 3536

> Old Manor Club, Wallasey: Folk at the Manor: Singers Night

> Railway Hotel, Butler St, Preston PR1 8BN: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01772 253951

> Rattan and Rush, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria: Kieran Halpin (web: www.kieranhalpin.com)

> Ring o’ Bells, Warrington: Singaround

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: Quare Craic. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> Shelbourne Hotel, Southport: Bothy Folk Club: Dave Burland

> Star Inn, Failsworth: Open Door Folk Club: Jed Grimes

> Walshaw Sports Club, Tottington, Bury: Walshaw Folk Club: Singers Night

> Walton Folk Club: Singers Night

> Waterside, Kay Bridge, Summerseat, Bury BL9 5PE:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01706 822065

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Live Irish Music 2pm - 4pm & 8pm - 10.30pm: Sturdy Beggars

> BBC Radio Merseyside: Folkscene 7.05pm: with Stan Ambrose.

> BBC Radio Stoke: Genevieve Tudor: folk music 8pm

> BBC Radio Cumbria: Northern Folk 9pm; with Alistair Anderson

> Bacup Conservative Club: Bacup Folk Club: Singaround

> Bar Risa, Chorlton St, Manchester: Acoustica! Open Mic

> Beech Inn, Chorlton, Manchester: Tune session

> Blue Cat Cafe, Stockport: Acoustic Songwriters Night

> Farmers Arms, Frankby, Wirral: Folk Club: Singers & Musicians

> Green Dragon, St Helens: Green Dragon Folk Club: Singaround

> Jolly Angler, Manchester: Singaround

> New Land o’ Cakes, Manchester: Sound Check Acoustic Jam Night: Singer-Songwriter Open Mic

> Pot of Beer, Manchester: Trad music session

> Prospect Inn, Runcorn: Folk at the Prospect: Singers Night

> Red Bull, Stockport: Red Bull Folk Club: Singers Night

> Red Lion, Newburgh: Room At The Top: Music, Verse & Whatever

> Revolution, Lancaster: LULUMS Open Mic

> Shippons, Irby: Folk Session

> Smugglers Den, Morecambe: Folk Session

> Victoria, Fleetwood: Musicians Session

> Victoria, Woolton Village, Liverpool: Acoustic Jam Night

> Waggon Inn, Uppermill: Singers Night

> White Lion, Swinton: Swinton Folk Club: Singers Night

> BBC GMR: The Parlour 7pm: Alan Keegan with Irish music

> BBC GMR: Sounds of Folk 8pm - 9pm with Ali O’Brien and guests Sad Pig

> Alexander’s Jazz Theatre Bar, Chester: Unplugged Folk Night

> Atlantic (Banjo Bar), Liverpool: Atlantic Irish Night

> Bar, Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton, Manchester: Phat Tuesday: Chorlton Cajun Massive: Singers & Musicians

> Black Horse, Limbrick: Monthly Singaround

> Bruins Bar, Manchester: Open Mic Acoustic Night hosted by Chezz

> Bush Inn, Droylsden: Bush Acoustic Music Club: Singers Night

> Castle Hotel, 66 Oldham St, Manchester M4 1LE: Ria’s Riots & Rebels Club featuring Tzuka + Interstar + Emmeline, hosted by Ria Bright. 7pm. Free. Details [email protected]

> Civil Service Sports & Social Club, St Annes: St Annes Acoustic Roots Club: Singers Night

> Clog & Billycock, Blackburn: Fortnightly Singers Night

> Crown, Stockport: Singaround/Open Mic

> Everyman Bistro, Liverpool: Singers Night

> Fox & Goose, Wigan Lane: Wigan Folk Club: Singaround

> George, Sandbach: Sandbach Unplugged: Ron Trueman Border (web: www.folking.com/rontruemanborder)

> Gregson Centre, Lancaster: Folk Music Session in Cafe/Bar

> Hilldale Village Hall, Parbold: Newburgh Morris Practice

> Horseshoe, Ringley: Singers Night

> Iguana Bar, Chorlton: Open Stage

> Maghull Folk Club: Singers Night

> Navigation, Heaton Norris, Stockport: Monthly Let It Roll Open Mic

> Oak Tree, Coppull: Musicians Session

> Peveril of the Peak, Manchester: Tune session

> Princess Hotel, Blackpool: Lancashire Meets Irish Folk Session

> Red Triangle Boxing Club, Liverpool: Johnson’s Acoustic Circus: Performers Night

> Roscoe’s Bar, Swinton: Sing When You’re Swiggin’: Acoustic Night

> Royal Oak, Littleborough: Royal Oak Folk Club: Singers Night

> Saddle Club, Birkenhead: Monthly Singaround

> Sefton Park Cricket Club, Liverpool: Jacqui’s Folk Club: Singers Night

> Southern Hotel, Chorlton, Manchester: Tuesday Night Blues Club: Acoustic Open Mic hosted by Depot

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> White Lion, Halton, Lancaster: Bluegrass & Old Time Session

> BBC Radio 4: Meet On The Ledge 1.30pm - 2pm. Still going strong after 30 years playing together, the pioneering electric-folk group, Fairport Convention, seen through the eyes of their passionate and dedicated fans. Presented by Adam Kirtley

> Abbey Bar, St Petersgate, Stockport: Songwriters Night

> Albion Hotel, Wallasey: Reckless Elbow Unplugged

> Alison Arms, Coppull: Singaround

> Barley Mow, Warrington: Essential Songwriters Night

> Bay Horse, Horwich: Raglan

> Boars Head Hotel, Middlewich: Open Mike Night hosted by the Salt Town Poets

> Bridge Inn, Port Sunlight: Bromborough Folk Club: Singers Night

> Chillies Wine Bar, Wavertree, Liverpool: Catacoustic: Open Mic

> Clarence Hotel, Blackpool: Folk Club: Steve Tilston (web: www.stevetilston.freeola.com)

> Cross Keys, Uppermill: Cross Keys Folk Club: Quicksilver

> Crown Inn, 154 Heaton Lane, Stockport SK4 1AR: Dai Thomas (Blues and old-timey music on National, Martin and 12-string guitars, mandolins, autoharp, banjos and dulcimer. CD: Songs From The Ragged Backside Of The American Dream). 8.30pm. Free. Info (venue) 0161 429 0549

> Falcon Hotel, Poulton-le-Fylde: Folk at the Falcon: Singaround

> Fleece Inn, Blackburn: Blackburn Folk Club: Singers Night

> Friends Meeting House, Lancaster: Taize - Harmony Singing for Peace

> Junction, Rainford: Bluegrass Workshop 7.30pm; Session 9pm

> Mawdsley’s, Mawsdesley: Broken Token Folk Club: Singers Night

> New Britannia Inn, Preston: Singers Night

> Pogue Mahone’s, Liverpool: Irish tune session

> Priory Club, Broadfield Dr, Leyland: Leyland Accordion Club

> Roadhouse, 8 Newton St, Manchester M1 2AN: Damn The Man Music’s Launch Party - The Generalissimos + Clear the Lake + Crouch Mog + Industry of Sound celebrate the launch of www.damnthemanmusic.com, the new website where unsigned bands and artistes can sell their music - open to all. 8pm. £4. Details 0778 2279162

> Scarisbrick Arms, Downholland: Folk Club: Singers Night

> Shenanigan’s, Bootle: Irish Trad Music Session

> Union Vaults, Chester: Singaround & Music Session

> Upton Royal British Legion Club: Jacqui’s Folk Club: Singers Night

> Waggon & Horses, Burnley: Burnley Folk Club: Singers & Musicians

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Live Irish Music

> BBC Radio 2: Mike Harding 8pm with listeners’ requests

> Arden Arms, Millgate, Stockport: Song Carriers Folk Club: Singaround

> Bell & Barrel, St Helens: Blues Jam Night

> Biddulph Labour Club, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent: Biddulph Folk Club. Phil Beer & Deb Sandland

> Briton’s Protection, 50 Gt Bridgewater St, Manchester M1 5LE: Michael Weston King + James Summerfield. 8pm. £8 adv. Info (venue) 0161 236 5895

> Cavern, Liverpool: Open Mic 6pm-ish - 8.30pm-ish; featured artiste 8.30pm-ish - 9pm-ish

> Coopers Tap, Morecambe: Open Stage

> Gregson Centre, Lancaster: HoBow Fiddle Workshop 6pm - 8pm

> Gregson Centre, Lancaster: Folk Music Session in Cafe/Bar

> Hop Pocket, Chorley: Blues Night

> Irish World Heritage Centre, Manchester: Irish music session

> Jolly Angler, Manchester: Irish Trad Music Session

> Magazine Hotel, Wallasey: Magazine Folk Club: Singers Night

> Railway, Droylsden: Folk Upstairs: Singaround

> Railway, Heatley, Lymm: Railway Folk Club: Singers Night

> St Anne’s Parish Club, Ormskirk: Bluegrass/Acoustic Country Night with the Britannia Bluegrass Band

> St Joseph’s Social Centre, Hogton, Preston: Gregson Lane Folk Club: Keith Mitchell

> St Luke’s Community Centre, Salford: The Barflies + Open Mic

> Seven Stars Hotel, Wallgate, Wigan: Wigan Folk Club: Singaround

> Ship Inn, Haskayne, nr Ormskirk: Folk Club: Singers Night

> South West Manchester Cricket Club: Chorlton Folk Club: Singers Night

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Fleetwood Folk Club: Singers Night

> Swan Inn, Dobcross: Session

> Thirsty Scholar, Manchester: Ria Bright 10pm

> Volunteer Arms, Bromley Cross, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Sturdy Beggars

> Wheatsheaf Inn, Embleton, Cockermouth, Cumbria: Folk at the Wheatsheaf: Karine Polwart (singer-songwriter - CD: Faultlines)

> White Lion, Riley St, Earby: Earby Folk Club: Singaround

> Woodley Civic Hall, Stockport: Woodlarks Harmony Singing Workshop 1.30pm - 3.30pm

> BBC Radio Lancashire: The Drift 8 - 9pm with Phil Brown

30th September Singers Night

14th October BEN WOOD

11th November ANDREW GREEN

9th December PETE HARDMAN

23rd December Christmas Special

> Castle Hotel, Oldham St, Manchester: Instrumental Session

> Coach House, Carlisle: Carlisle Folk & Blues Club: guest tbc

> Crosby Civic Hall, Crosby Rd North, Liverpool L22 0LQ: "Jacques Brel Is Alive And Well And Living In Paris" - musical production with songs written by Jacques Brel. Info (venue) 0151 928 1919

> Dog & Partridge, Bollington: Bollington Folk Club: William Pint & Fekicia Dale (web: members.aol.com/Pintndale)

> Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Abbey Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5QR: The Stumble (blues - web: mysite.freeserve.com/thestumble). Info (venue) 01229 821039

> Foresters, 92 Fecitt Brow, Blackburn BB1 2AZ: Nick Dow Blues Band. Info (venue) 01254 51694

> Hare & Hounds, Manchester: Full Circle Folk Club: Singers Night

> Harlequin Theatre, Northwich: Northwich Folk Club: Solan (web: www.music.shetland.co.uk)

> Hinds Head, Charnock Richard: Musicians Session

> Kings Arms, Hale, Cumbria: Hale & Hearty Folk Club: Singaround

> Kings Arms, 144 Bawdlands, Clitheroe, Lancs BB7 2LA: The Section (blues). Info (venue) 01200 422450

> Lord Eldon, 27 Tatton St, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6AD: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01565 652261

> Met Theatre, Market St, Bury BL9 0BW: Bernard Wrigley (web: www.bernardwrigley.com). 8pm. £8. Tickets/Info 0161 761 2216

> Moorbrook Inn, Preston: Preston Folk Club: Singaround

> NALGO Club, Alder Rd, Liverpool: Monthly Jam Session at the Nalgo

> Queens Head Inn, Frodsham: Frodsham Folk Club: Singers Night

> Railway Inn, Greenfield: Open Mic Acoustic Night

> Southport Theatre & Floral Hall, Promedade, Southport PR9 0DZ: Danu (new CD: The Road Less Travelled). Tickets/Info 01704 540454

> Sun Inn, Macclesfield: Irish Trad Music Session

> Swan, Middleton, Carnforth: Bluegrass Night

> Thornton Little Theatre: Nick Dow Blues Band.

> Waggon Inn, Uppermill: Singers Night

> Walton Folk Club: Singers Night

> White Lion, Halton, Lancaster: Folk Session

> Brian Boru Club, Ashton-in-Makerfield: Comhaltas music classes 1.30pm

> Buffet Bar, Platform One, Stalybridge Railway Station: Folk Club: Singers Night

> Church Inn, Church Lane, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6LW:Blue Thatcher. 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01457 820902

> Hathersage Folk Train: Virginia Barrett. Departs Manchester Piccadilly at 11.43am, calling at Reddish North, Brinnington, Bredbury, Romiley, Marple, Strines, New Mills Central, Chinley, Edale, Hope and Bamford en route. Return on the 2.38pm train from Hathersage, calling at all the same stations EXCEPT STRINES, arriving Piccadilly at 3.37pm. At Hathersage, visit the Little John Hotel on Station Road for liquid refreshment and further session from the band. Cost: normal return ticket. Info 0161 242 6296 (24 hrs) or 01663 746377

> Jolly Angler, Manchester: Irish Trad Music Session

> Lord Rodney, 67 Winwick Rd, Warrington WA2 7DH:Celtic Cross (web: www.celticcross.co.uk). Info (venue) 01925 234296

> The Mop (Weavers Arms), Halliwell, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Old Black Bull, 35-36 Friargate, Preston PR1 2AT: Nick Dow Blues Band. Info (venue) 01772 823397

> Philharmonic Hall, 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX: Chieftains. 0151 709 3789

> Playhouse 2, Newtown St, Shaw, Oldham OL2 8NX: Tom Topping Band + Stan Graham. 8pm. £8. Info Barrie Cottam 01706 847494

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: The Stumble (blues - web: mysite.freeserve.com/thestumble). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB:Philomena Begley. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> Smithy Manor, Jubits Lane, Sutton Manor, St Helens WA9 4BB: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01744 817657

> Ye Olde Man & Scythe, Bolton: Acoustic Session

> BBC Radio Wales: Celtic Heartbeat 10pm with Frank Hennessy

> Palace Hotel, Palace Rd, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6AG: Buxton Country Music Festival. Sat 6.30pm, Sun 12.30pm. £15.50 (under-14s free). Details [email protected]. Info (venue) 01298 22001

> Abbey Bar, St Petersgate, Stockport SK1: Songwriters Night 9pm. Free. Info (venue) 0161 474 0088 (Wednesdays)

> Albion Hotel, 104 Albion St, New Brighton, Merseyside CH45 9JH: Albion Folk Club 8.30pm. Roger Parker 0151 638 1987 (Sundays)

> Albion Hotel, 104 Albion St, New Brighton, Merseyside CH45 9JH: Reckless Elbow Unplugged 9pm. Info (venue) 0151 639 1832 / band website: www.reckless-elbow.fsnet.co.uk (1st & 3rd Wednesdays)

> Alexander’s Jazz Theatre Bar, 2 Rufus Court, Chester CH1 2JW: Unplugged Folk Night 8pm - midnight (bar till 2am). Admission free before 10.30pm, £2 after. Info (venue) 01244 340005 (Tuesdays)

> Alison Arms, Preston Road, Coppull, Chorley PR7 5DU: Alison Arms Folk Club 9pm. Free Food Provided. Kevin/Hilda 01257 792246 (Wednesdays)

> Arden Arms, 23 Millgate, Stockport SK1 2LX: Song Carriers Folk Club 8pm - 11.15pm, mainly trad, club room is smoke-free. Terry Whelan 0161 976 2716 (Thursdays)

> Astley Arms, 1 Chapel Hill, Dukinfield, Cheshire SK16 4BT: Open Mic & SongwriterNight 8.30pm hosted by Ann English. Info 0161 304 7132 or 07980 503889. Free supper & Singers drink. (Last Sunday)

> Atlantic (Banjo Bar), 162 Regent Rd, Liverpool L20 8DD: Atlantic Irish Night 9pm. 0151 922 9815 (Tuesdays)

> Bacup Conservative Club, Irwell Terrace, Bacup, Lancs OL13 9AW: Bacup Folk Club 8pm. Paul Edwards 01706 872810; web: www.bacupfolkclub.co.uk (Mondays)

> Bar, 531-533 Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0UE: Phat Tuesday: Chorlton Cajun Massive: Singers & Musicians 9pm. Info 07979 712712 or 0161 973 8701 (Tuesdays)

> Bar Risa, 40 Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3HW: Acoustica! Open Mic 8.30pm. Free. Info (venue) 0161 236 5663 (Mondays)

> Barley Mow, 29 Old Market Place, Golden Square, Warrington WA1 1QB: Essential Songwriters Night 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01925 651182 (Wednesdays)

> Bay Horse, 141 Lee Lane, Horwich, Bolton BL6 7AG: Raglan (Wednesdays)

> Beech Inn, 72 Beech Rd, Chorlton, Manchester M21 9EG: Tune session. Info (venue) 0161 881 1180 (Mondays)

> Bell & Barrel, 58 Nth John St, St Helens WA10 2JT: Blues Jam Night. Info (venue) 01744 25140 (Thursdays)

> Biddulph Labour Club, Hollies, Wharf Rd, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent ST8 6AJ: Biddulph Folk Club. Eric Cox 01782 514896 / email: [email protected]. Floor singers contact Liz Holland 01782 266821. Web: www.biddulphfolk.org.uk (1st & 3rd Thursdays)

> Black Horse, Long Lane, Limbrick, Chorley PR6 9EE: Folk Club 8.30pm. Venue 01257 264030 (2nd Tuesday)

> Black Horse, 111 Park Road, St Helens WA9 1ER: Irish Night (Sundays)

> Blue Cat Cafe, 17 Shaw Rd, Heaton Moor, Stockport, Cheshire SK4 4AG: Acoustic Songwriter Nights 8pm. 0161 432 2117; www.bluecatcafe.co.uk (Mondays)

> Blues Bar, 21 Moor Lane, Crosby, Liverpool L23 2SE: Sunday Sociable 2pm. An Acoustic Engine Songwriters event with guests and limited open mic spots, hosted by Steve Roberts and/or Dan Dean. Free admission. Food available. Tel 0151 286 2662 / email: [email protected] / web: www.acousticengine.co.uk (Sundays)

> Boar Hound, 37 Brook St, Macclesfield SK11 7AD: Singers Nights. Sue Capper 01625 614791 (last Thursday)

> Boars Head Hotel, Kinderton St, Middlewich, Cheshire CW10 0JE: Open Mike Night 8pm hosted by the Salt Town Poets. Free. Info (venue) 01606 833191 (3rd Wednesday)

> Boars Head Hotel, Kinderton St, Middlewich, Cheshire CW10 0JE: Irish Trad Music Session. Info (venue) 01606 833191 (2nd Saturday)

> Boathouse, 1 The Parade, Parkgate, Neston, Wirral, Merseyside CH64 6RN: Parkgate Folk Club 8.15pm. Eddie Morris 0151 677 1840 or Mike & Buddy Woods 0151 678 6713; www.parkgatefolkclub.com (last Thursday)

> Brian Boru Club, 55 Bryn St, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan WN4 9AX: Comhaltas music classes 1.30pm (Saturdays). Comhaltas instrumental session 3pm (2nd Sunday) Contact Julie Nicholas 01744 638805

> Bridge Inn, Bolton Rd, Port Sunlight, Wirral CH62 4UQ: Bromborough Folk Club 8.30pm. John Coleman, tel 0151 334 0759, email [email protected] & Maurice Pursell, 0151 327 7652, email: [email protected]; web: www.bromfolk.com (Wednesdays)

> Bruins Bar, Ladybarn House, Moseley Rd, Manchester M14 6ND: Open Mic Acoustic Night hosted by Chezz 8.30pm. Free. Info (venue) 0161 256 1992 (Tuesdays)

> Buffet Bar, Platform One, Stalybridge Railway Station, Rasbottom St, Stalybridge SK15 1RF: Folk Club 9pm. Jim Schofield 01457 833897; email [email protected]; web: www.jimfolk.org.uk (Saturdays)

> Bush Inn, 120 Moorside St, Droylsden, Manchester M43 7HL: Bush Acoustic Music Club 9pm (Tuesdays)

> Captain Nelson Tavern, South Quay, Maryport, Cumbria CA15 8AB: Blues on Sunday 4pm. Info (venue) 01900 813109 / web: www.captainnelson.co.uk (Sundays)

> Castle Hotel, 66 Oldham St, Manchester M4 1LE: Acoustica! Open Mic 8.30pm. Info (venue) 0161 236 2945 (4th Thursday)

> Castle Hotel, 66 Oldham St, Manchester M4 1LE: Instrumental Session 8.30pm. Info (venue) 0161 236 2945 (Fridays)

> Cavern, 8-10 Matthew St, Liverpool L2 6RE: Songwriters Open Mic hosted by Pete Smith 6pm-ish - 8.30pm-ish; Featured Artiste 8.30pm-ish - 9pm-ish (small expenses fee); followed by a house band through until 2am. Free entry for all. Performers wanting featured guest slots please email: [email protected] (Thursdays)

> Chetham Arms, High St, Chapletown, Edgworth, Turton, Bolton BL7 0EW: Edgworth Folk Music Session 8.30pm. Brian Frew 01204 852989; www11.brinkster.com/brianfrew/index.html (1st Monday)

> Chillies Wine Bar, 59 High St, Wavertree, Liverpool L15 8HE: Catacoustic: acoustic evenings with open mic 9pm. Free. Info (venue) 0151 733 3451 (Wednesdays)

> Civil Service Sports & Social Club, Shepherd Rd, St Annes: St Annes Acoustic Roots Club 8.30pm. Sue Arrow / John Gibney 01253 721503 (Tuesdays)

> Clarence Hotel, Preston New Rd, Blackpool FY4 4HG: Folk Club 8.30pm. Ann Green 01772 683027 (Wednesdays)

> Clog & Billycock, Billinge End Rd, Blackburn BB2 6QB 9pm. Pete 01254 207127 (alt Tuesdays)

> Coach House, Heads Nook, Carlisle, Cumbria: Carlisle Folk & Blues Club 8pm. Contact Myrna Rae 01697 72305 (alternate Fridays)

> Coopers Tap, Marine Rd Central, Morecambe LA4 5BY: Open Stage 8pm. Info (venue) 01524 419972 (Thursdays)

> Cross Keys, Running Hill Gate, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6LW: Cross Keys Folk Club 8.30pm. Jim Schofield 01457 833897; email [email protected]; web: www.jimfolk.org.uk (Wednesdays)

> Cross Keys, Running Hill Gate, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6LW: Cross Keys Singaround hosted by The Hometowners 8.30pm. Info 01457 874521 (Sundays)

> Cross Keys Inn, Lower Bridge St, Chester: Raven Folk Club 8.30pm. Nick 01244 677212 / Chris 01244 343788 / email: [email protected] / web: www.seelie.freeserve.co.uk (Sundays)

> Crown Hotel, High St, Garstang, Preston PR3 1FA: Crown Folk Club hosted by Tony Stollard 8.30pm. Info 01995 602152 (Sundays)

> Crown Inn, 154 Heaton Lane, Stockport SK4 1AR: Singaround/Open Mic. Kieron/Mary 0161 291 8243 / email: [email protected] (Tuesdays)

> Cumberland Arms, 39-41 Chapel Green Rd, Hindley, Wigan WN2 3LL: VERSE & WORSE 8.30pm. Poetry, music, stories & chip butties. Free Food Provided. Joe 01942 215775 (4th Monday)

> Dillon’s Whistlin’ Jig, 19 Wellington Rd Nth, Stockport SK4 1HJ: Irish Trad Music Session. Info (venue) Debbie 0161 476 1580 (Sundays)

> Dog & Partridge, 97 Palmerston St, Bollington, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 5JX: Bollington Folk Club 8.30pm. Arthur Wakefield 01625 573596; [email protected] (Fridays)

> Eaves Green Community Centre, Lower Burgh Way, Eaves Green, Chorley PR7 3QG: Concertina Workshop (all systems) 2pm - 5pm. Friendly get-together, new players welcome. Angie 01257 263678 or email [email protected] (2nd Saturday). Band Workshop (aimed at developing instrumental skills) same details as concertina workshop (1st Saturday). Both events supported by Folkus

> Everyman Bistro, Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BQ: Folk Club 8.30pm. Christine Jones 0151 709 3336 (Tuesdays)

> Falcon Hotel, Hardhorn Way, Poulton-le-Fylde, nr Blackpool FY6 8AE: Folk at the Falcon 9pm. 01253 892001; www.fyldefolk.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/falcon/index.html (Wednesdays)

> Falstaff Inn, 68 King St, Southport PR8 1LG: Music & Song Session from lunchtime until late afternoon. Clive Pownceby 0151 924 5078; www.bothyfolkclub.co.uk (1st Saturday)

> Farmers Arms, 71 Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5JH: Irish music session. Sully 01625 267137 (1st Thursday)

> Farmers Arms, Hill Bark Rd, Frankby, Wirral CH48 1NJ: Folk Club 8.30pm. Free. Alison Parker 0151 648 4444 (Mondays)

> Fleece Inn, 24-26 Penny St, Blackburn BB1 6HL: Blackburn Folk Club 8.30pm. Brian Kirkham 01254 720745 (Wednesdays)

> Fosters Arms, Gisburn Rd, Barnoldswick, Lancs BB18 5LG: Folk At t’ Fosters. Contact Heather Sheldrick 01282 852898. (1st Saturday)

> Fox & Goose, 37-39 Wigan Lane, Wigan WN1 1XR.: Wigan Folk Club 9pm. Free. Free Food Provided. Joan Blackburn 01942 321223; website: www.wiganfolkclub.co.uk (Tuesdays)

> Fox & Hounds, 201 Woodsend Rd, Urmston, Manchester M41 8QW: Urmston Acoustics 8.30pm. Martin Kavanagh 0161 748 5497 (1st Tuesday)

> Freeholders Arms, 49 Ullswater Rd, Lancaster LA1 3PS: Singers on Sunday: Singaround 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01524 32853 (Sundays)

> Friends Meeting House, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster LA1 1TX: Taize - Harmony Singing for Peace 8.15pm. Info 01524 791288 (Wednesdays)

> George, 39 High St, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 1AL: Sandbach Unplugged 8.45pm. Email [email protected]; web: www.sandbachfolk.com (Tuesdays)

> Green Dragon, Gartons Lane, Jubits Lane, Sutton Manor, St Helens WA9 4RR: Green Dragon Folk Club 9pm. Peter 01744 819765 (Mondays)

> Gregson Community Centre, 33 Moorgate, Lancaster LA1 3PY: HoBow Fiddle Workshop 6pm - 8pm. Jane Lawrence 01521 64689; email [email protected]. Supported by Folkus. (Thursdays)

> Gregson Arts & Community Centre, 33 Moorgate, Lancaster LA1 3PY: Folk Music Session in Cafe/Bar 9pm. Info 01524 849959 (Tuesdays & Thursdays)

> Guest House, 16 Union St, Southport PR8 0QE: Music & Song Session 8.15pm. Clive Pownceby 0151 924 5078; www.bothyfolkclub.co.uk (3rd Monday)

> Halfway House, St Annes Rd, Marton, Blackpool FY4 2QL: Singaround 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01253 401699 (Sundays)

> Hare & Hounds, 46 Shudehill, Manchester M4 4AA: Full Circle Folk Club 8.30pm. Kevin Tarpey 0161 681 1593 (Fridays)

> Harlequin Theatre, Queen St, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5JN: Northwich Folk Club 8.30pm. John Booth 01606 79356 (Fridays)

> Hilldale Village Hall, Chorley Rd, Hilldale, Parbold, Lancs: Newburgh Morris Practice (Womens North West Side) 7.30pm - 9pm. New dancers & musicians always welcome. Rebecca 01257 463942 or Barbara 01695 723100 (Tuesdays)

> Hinds Head, Preston Rd, Charnock Richard, Chorley PR7 5HL: Musicians Session. Info (venue) 01257 791365 (Fridays)

> Hop Pocket, Carr Lane, Chorley PR7 3JQ: Blues Night. Info (venue) 01257 275597. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.thehoppocketchorley.co.uk (Thursday)

> Horse Shoe Hotel, Fold Rd, Ringley, Stoneclough, Radcliffe, Manchester M26 1FT: Singers Nights with residents The O’Reallys. Ian Brown 01204 705955 (Tuesdays)

> Howcroft Inn, 36 Pool St, Bolton BL1 2JU 8.30pm. Ron Callow 01606 863283 (2nd & 4th Tuesdays)

> Iguana Bar, 115-117 Manchester Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 9PG: Open Stage 8.30pm. Info (venue) 0161 881 9338 / web: www.iguanabar.co.uk (Tuesdays)

> Irish Centre, Lever St, Bolton: Comhaltas Irish Trad Music Session 8pm. Contact Joe Mullarkey 01204 794036 / email [email protected]; or John MacManus 01204 305800 / email [email protected] (3rd Sunday)

> Irish World Heritage Centre, 10 Queens Rd, Manchester M8 8UF: Irish music session 9pm. Info Stephen Allen 0794 735 8603 (Thursdays)

> Jackson’s Pit, Barn St, Oldham OL1 1LP: Acoustica! Open Mic 8pm - 11pm hosted by Darren Poyzer. Web: www.poyzer.com (Sundays)

> John Bull Chop House, 2 Coopers Row, Market Place, Wigan WN1 1PQ: Acoustic Night 8pm. Contact Simon Fox 07834 181695 (alternate Sundays)

> John o’ Gaunt, 55 Market St, Lancaster LA1 1JG: Regular Guests. Tony Cooke 01524 35341 (Thursdays)

> Jolly Angler, 47 Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2JW: Singaround 9pm hosted by Joe Kerrins (Mondays); Irish Trad Music Session (Thursdays & Saturdays). Info (venue) 0161 236 5307

> Kings Arms, Hale, Milnthorpe, Cumbria LA7 7BH: Hale & Hearty Folk Club 8.30pm. Frank Lewis 01524 734440 (1st & 3rd Fridays)

> Lamb, 274 Halliwell Rd, Bolton BL1 3QB: Buskers Ball (Open Mic). Alec Martin 01204 527414; email: [email protected]; www.busker.freeuk.com (Sundays)

> Leigh Conservative Club, Railway Rd, Leigh WN7 4AX: Leigh Folk Club. Pauline Dowsett 01942 604603; email: [email protected] (last Friday)

> Lighthouse Restaurant, within Lakes Glass Centre, Oubas Hill, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 7LB: Folk and Food. Jenny Thistlethwaite 01229 581121 / 583935 (Irregular Saturdays)

> Longridge Royal British Legion, Townley Rd, Longridge, Nr Preston PR3 3EA: Longridge Folk Club 8.30pm. Residents & Organisers: Rod Flanagan 01772 784214 & Brian Preston 01772 457071 (1st & 3rd Tuesdays)

> Lostock Arms, Lostock, Bolton: Rafters Roar Folk Club (Mondays) - now closed

> Magazine Hotel, 7 Magazine Brow, New Brighton, Merseyside CH45 1HP:Magazine Folk Club. Free (Thursdays)

> Maghull Community Centre, Green Lane, off Liverpool Rd Nth, Maghull, Merseyside L31 2JH: Maghull Folk Club 8.30pm. Joe Ryan 0151 531 9273 or email [email protected] (Tuesdays)

> Masonic Lodge, 138 High St, Uppermill, Saddleworth, Oldham OL3 6BT: Safra Club: Big Sing 8.30pm. Ali O’Brien 01457 870391 (2nd Friday)

> Mawdsley’s, Hall Lane, Mawsdesley, Ormkirk L40 2QZ: Broken Token Folk Club 8.30pm. Tickets for all events are £5 (£4 in advance on the previous guest night). Angie/Ken 01257 263678 or email [email protected] (1st & 3rdWednesdays) - closed for the summer

> Moorbrook Inn, 370 North Rd, Preston PR1 1RU: Preston Folk Club 8.30pm. Rob Malaney 01257 231463 (Fridays)

> The Mop (Weavers Arms) 8 Brunel St, Halliwell, Bolton BL1 8AS: Buskers Ball (Open Mic) 8pm. Alec Martin 01204 527414; email: [email protected]; www.busker.freeuk.com (Saturdays)

> Mr Kite Benefits: Credit card bookings on 01257 241693 (weekdays & Saturday mornings); or by post from 24 Acorn Close, Leyland, Lancs PR25 3AF, cheque payable to ‘Mr Kite Benefits’. Indicate no. of tickets required and a contact no. in case of problems; cheque to reach Mr Kite at least 48 hours before the Benefit, tickets will be held on door of venue unless you enclose an s.a.e. If you do this, please send your application at least 10 days before the Benefit. Web: www.mrkite.org

> NALGO Club, Alder Rd, off Queens Dr, Liverpool L12 2AY: Jam Session at the Nalgo 8.30pm. Contact 0151 281 2530. (3rd Friday)

> Navigation, 1 Manchester Rd, Heaton Norris, Stockport SK4 1TY: Let It Roll Open Mic Night. Details from Martin Ainscow 0161 286 2484 (2nd Tuesday)

> New Britannia Inn, 6 Heatley St, off Friargate, Preston PR1 2XB: 8.30pm. 01772 253424 (Wednesdays)

> New Land o’ Cakes, 60 Lever St, Manchester M1 1FJ: Sound Check Acoustic Jam Night: Singer-Songwriter Open Mic 8.30pm - 11pm. Free. Info: email [email protected] (Mondays)

> Nursery Inn, 258 Green Lane, Stockport SK4 2NA: Why Worry Songwriters Club. Mark Aherne 0161 483 4783 (last Tuesday)

> Oak Tree, 130 Preston Rd, Coppull, Lancs PR7 5ED: Musicians Session. Info (venue) 01257 791217 (Tuesdays)

> Old Manor Club, Withens Lane, Wallasey CH45 7NN: Folk at the Manor 8.15pm. Roger Parker 0151 638 1987 / web: www.manorhouseclub.co.uk (Sundays)

> Penrith Playhouse, 1 Auction Mart Lane, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 7JG: Plug & Play. Jackie Knox 01768 867845 / web: www.plug-play.co.uk (1st Sunday)

> Peveril of the Peak, 127 Gt Bridgewater St, Manchester M1 5JQ: Tune session. Free Food Provided. Info (venue) 0161 236 6364 (Tuesdays)

> Pogue Mahone’s, 77 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BB: Irish tune session 9pm. 0151 708 8301 (Wednesdays)

> Pot of Beer, 36 New Mount St, Manchester M4 4DE: Trad music session 8.30pm. Info (venue) 0161 834 8579 (Mondays)

> Princess Hotel, Foxhall Rd, Blackpool: Lancashire Meets Irish Folk Session 9pm. Info (venue) www.theprincessblackpool.co.uk (Tuesdays)

> Priory Club, Broadfield Walk, Broadfield Dr, Leyland, Lancs PR25 1NB: Leyland Accordion Club 8pm - 11pm. David Batty 01772 454328 / email [email protected] / web: www.accordionclub.co.uk (3rd Wednesday)

> Prospect Inn, 70 Weston Rd, Weston Village, Runcorn WA7 4LD: Folk at the Prospect 8.30pm. Roger Hanslip 01928 731567; email: [email protected]; www.folkattheprospect.co.uk (Mondays)

> Puss in Boots, Canal Side, Macclesfield SK11 7DB: Singarounds. Pete Blackthorn 01625 428687 (1st Tuesday)

> Queens Head Inn, 92 Main St, Frodsham, Cheshire WA6 7AR: Frodsham Folk Club 8.30pm. Alton & Carol Alexander. Email: [email protected] (Fridays)

> Railway Hotel, 42 Mill Lane, Heatley, Lymm, Cheshire WA13 9SQ: Railway Folk Club. 8.30pm. Stewart Lever 07919 270916; www.railwayfolkclub.co.uk (Thursdays)

> Railway Hotel, 42 Mill Lane, Heatley, Lymm, Cheshire WA13 9SQ: Songs in the Snug. 8.30pm. Mainly trad. Alan Grace 01625 861042 (2nd & 4th Wednesdays)

> Railway Inn, 326 Lumb Lane, Droylsden, Manchester M43 7LA: Folk Upstairs at the Railway 8.45pm. Christine Stephen 0161 370 6587 or Brenda Judge 0161 432 4830 (1st & 3rd Thursdays)

> Railway Inn, 11 Shaw Hall Bank Rd, Greenfield, Oldham OL3 7JZ: Open Mic Acoustic Night 8.30pm. Free. Info (venue) 01457 872307 (Fridays)

> Rattan and Rush, 39-41 Market St, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria CA17 4QN. Folk and Food. Penny 017683 72123; fax 017683 72132; email [email protected]; www.rattanandrush.co.uk (Saturdays, monthly)

> Raven Inn, Swanlow Lane, Darnhall, Winsford, Cheshire CW7 4DX: Acoustic / Singers Night 8.30pm hosted by Phil Badder & Rob Coker. Free. Contact Alan 07817 441420 (2nd Thursday)

> Red Bull, 14 Middle Hillgate, Stockport SK1 3AY: Red Bull Folk Club 8.30pm. Peter Hood 0161 432 4142 (Mondays)

> Red Lion, Ash Brow, Newburgh, Parbold, Wigan WN8 7NG: Room At The Top 8.45pm. Admission £1. Trevor Banfield 0151 430 0166 (Mondays)

> Red Triangle Boxing Club, 38 Everton Rd, Liverpool L6 2ENl: Johnson’s Acoustic Circus 7pm. Roy Johnson 0151 286 2974 (Tuesdays)

> Revolution Nightclub, Penny St, Lancaster LA1 1XN: Open Mic 8.30pm (termtime only). Organised by LULUMS (Lancaster University Live & Unsigned Music Society). Info: email [email protected] / web: lulumsoc.co.uk (Mondays)

> Ring o’ Bells, 131 Church St, Warrington WA1 2TL: Folk Club 8.15pm (Sundays)

> Roscoe’s Bar, 377 Chorley Rd, Swinton, Manchester M27 6AY: Sing When You’re Swiggin’: Acoustic Night hosted by Benny & Gary. Start 8pm prompt. Intending performers should arrive before 8pm. Free. Contact: [email protected]. Web: www.roscoesbar.co.uk (Tuesdays)

> Royal British Legion, George’s Rd West, Poynton, Stockport SK12 1JY: Porkies Folk Club 8.30pm. Judy Hancock 01260 252633 (1st Friday)

> Royal Oak Hotel, 41 Church St, Littleborough, nr Rochdale OL15 9AA: Royal Oak Folk Club 9pm. Info 01706 342655 (Tuesdays)

> St Anne’s Parish Club, Prescot Rd, Ormskirk, Lancs L39 4TG: Bluegrass/Acoustic Country Night with the Britannia Bluegrass Band 8.30pm. Aim to be of interest to folk and country fans as well. Pete Mackie 01704 870129; email [email protected]; http://uk.geocities.com/[email protected] (Thursdays)

> St Anne’s Parish Hall, Church Lane, Shevington, Wigan WN6 8BD: Standish Folk Club 8.15pm. David Jones 01254 54877 / Barbara Benbow 01257 255575 (Irregular)

> St Joseph’s Social Centre, 331-333 Gregson Lane, Hoghton, Preston PR5 0FD: Gregson Lane Folk Club. Graham/Bernadette 01254 853929 ; www.troubleatmill.btinternet.co.uk (alt Thursdays)

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: Conhaltas Irish Trad Music Session 8.30pm. Info Michelle Farrell 0161 445 2610 (2nd Saturday)

> St Luke’s Community Centre, Swinton Park Rd, Salford M6 7WR: Open Mic hosted by The Barflies 8.30pm. Pete 0794 653 3824; email [email protected]; web: www.theringofstones.co.uk (Thursdays)

> St Mary’s Parish Centre, Lock St, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington BB5 3EE: Oswaldtwistle Folk Club 8.30pm. Dylan Owen 01254 390391 (1st Saturday)

> St Michael’s Irish Centre, Boundary Lane, West Derby Rd, Liverpool L6 5JG: Comhaltas Irish Trad Music Session. Info 0151 922 3503 or 0151 526 5118 (last Friday, except May & Aug)

> Saddle Club, Roman Rd, Prenton, Birkenhead, Mersyside CH43 3DB: Saddle Club Singaround 9pm. Ron Thomas 07740 64246 (2nd Tuesday)

> Scarisbrick Arms, 2 Black-A-Moor Lane, Downholland, Ormskirk, Lancs L39 7HX: Folk Club 8.30pm. Info (venue) 0151 526 1120 (Wednesdays)

> Sefton Conservative Club, Crawford Avenue, Mossley Hill, Liverpool L18 1DR: Liverpool’s Very Special Folk Club. Info Julia 0151 722 7241 / 07773 061508 / email [email protected] (Irregular Wednesdays)

> Sefton Park Cricket Club, Croxteth Drive, Sefton Park, Liverpool L17 3AD: Jacqui’s Folk Club 8.30pm. Jacqui McDonald 01244 300576 (2nd Tuesday)

> Shelbourne Hotel, 1 Lord Street West, Southport, Merseyside PR8 2BH: Bothy Folk Club. 8pm. Clive Pownceby 0151 924 5078; www.bothyfolkclub.co.uk (Sundays)

> Shenanigan’s, 234 Derby Rd, Bootle, Merseyside L20 8LJ: Irish Trad Music Session. Info (venue) 0151 922 9071 (Wednesdays)

> Ship Inn, 6 Rosemary Lane, Haskayne, nr Ormskirk L39 7JP: Folk Club 8.30pm. Free Food Provided. 01704 840650 (Thursdays)

> Shippons, 8a Thingwall Rd, Irby, Wirral, Merseyside CH61 3UA: Folk Session. 0151 648 4444 (Mondays)

> Smugglers Den, 56 Poulton Rd, Morecambe, Lancs LA4 5HB: Folk Session. Info (venue) 01524 421684 (Mondays)

> Southern Hotel, Mauldeth Rd West (corner Nell Lane), Chorlton, Manchester M21 7SP: Tuesday Night Blues Club: guests + acoustic open mic 8pm. Admission £3. Mat Walklate 0161 881 0071 / 0776 231 6111; www.talented.fsnet.co.uk/mat.html (Tuesdays)

> South West Manchester Cricket Club, Ellesmere Rd, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0SG: Folk Club 9pm. Jo Zeph Roberts 0161 848 9621 (Thursdays)

> Spinners Arms, Cowling Rd, Adlington, Chorley PR6 9EA: Four Fools Songs & Music 8.15pm. Angie & Ken Bladen 01257 263678 / email: [email protected] / web: www.four-fools.co.uk (Mondays)

> Star Inn, 69 Church St, Failsworth, Manchester M35 9JN: Open Door Folk Club 8.30pm. Pauline 0161 681 3618; email: [email protected] ; www.opendoorfolkclub.co.uk (Sundays)

> Steamer Hotel, 1-2 Queens Terrace, Fleetwood, Lancs FY7 6BT: Fleetwood Folk Club 8.30pm. Dave Ryan 01253 876351 (Thursdays)

> Sun Inn, 45 Mill Lane, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 7NN: Irish Trad Music Session. Info (venue) 01625 610436 (Fridays)

> Swan Inn, 1 The Square, Dobcross, nr Uppermill, Oldham OL3 5AA: Session (Thursdays)

> Swan Inn, Middleton, Carnforth, Lancs LA6 2NB: Bluegrass Night hosted by the Wildwood Band 9pm. Info (venue) 015242 76223 (Fridays)

> Thirsty Scholar, 50 New Wakefield St, Manchester M1 5NP: Ria Bright. 10pm. Free. Info (venue) 0161 236 6071 (Thursdays)

> Touchstones Rochdale, Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AQ: Community Drumming Circle 11am - 1.30pm, organised by the Pandemonium Samba Band. All instruments provided. Free. Disabled friendly. Family friendly. Info (venue) 01706 864986 (last Saturday)

> Ulverston Sports Club, Priory Rd, Ulverston, Lancs LA12 9HT: South Lakes Music Promotions Folk Club. Tel 07743 555227. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.slmp.btinternet.co.uk (1st Thursday)

> Union Vaults, 44 Egerton St, Chester CH1 3ND: Singaround & Music Session 9pm. Free Food Provided. Mr Happy 01244 675860 (Wednesdays)

> Upton Royal British Legion Club, 20 Heath Rd, Upton, Cheshire CH2 1HX: Jacqui’s Folk Club 8.30pm. Jacqui McDonald 01244 300576 (Wednesdays)

> Victoria Hotel, 20 Ann St West, Widnes WA8 7UB: 8.30pm. Free. Peter Bentham 0151 495 1495; email [email protected] (2nd Friday)

> Victoria, 42-46 Dock St, Fleetwood FY7 6AG: Musicians Session (Mondays)

> Victoria, Quarry St, Woolton Village, Liverpool L25 6EY: Acoustic Jam Night 8.30pm. Info (venue) 0151 428 8474 (Mondays)

> View Two Gallery, 23 Mathew St (red door next to Lennons Bar), Liverpool L2 6RE: Alchemy Acoustic Night hosted by Bobhowla. Doors 8.30pm. Admission £2. Acts wishing to perform email [email protected] (last Friday)

> Volunteer Arms, 158 Darwen Rd, Bromley Cross, Bolton BL7 9JJ: Buskers Ball (Open Mic) 8pm. Alec Martin 01204 527414; email: [email protected]; www.busker.freeuk.com (Saturdays)

> Waggon Inn, 32-34 High St, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6HR 8pm. Guests plus Open Mic hosted by Ann English & Stuart French. 01457 872376 (Mondays); Celtic Revival 8pm: Open Mic hosted by Dave O’Dea. 01457 872376 (Fridays)

> Waggon & Horses, Colne Rd, Brierfield, Nelson, Burnley BB9 5RD: Burnley Folk Club 8.30pm. Phyl Watson 01282 774077 (Wednesdays)

> Walshaw Sports Club, Sycamore Rd, Tottington, Bury: Walshaw Folk Club 8.30pm. Frank / Doreen 01204 413909; email: [email protected] (2nd & 4th Sundays)

> Walton County Ward Labour Club, 39 Hale Rd, Walton, Liverpool L4 3RL: Folk Club. Lilian French 0151 474 0979; www.waltonmusicclub.supanet.com/index1.html (8.45pm Fridays & 8.30pm Sundays)

> Waxy O’Connor’s, The Printworks, Corporation St, Manchester M4 2BS: Live Irish Music. 0870 220 0823; email: [email protected] (9pm - 11pmWednesdays and 2pm - 4pm & 8pm - 10.30pm Sundays)

> West Cheshire Sailing Club, Coastal Drive, Harrison Drive, Wallasey, Merseyside CH45 3PZ: Folk Club. Free (1st Friday)

> Westhoughton Golf Club, School St, Westhoughton, Bolton BL5 2BR:Westhoughton Folk Club. 8.15pm. Pat Batty 01257 230508 / www.folkclub.org.uk (Fridays) - closed - reopens 24.9.04

> Wheatsheaf Inn, Embleton, Cockermouth, Cumbria CA13 9XP: Folk at the Wheatsheaf. Terry Haworth 01900 604765 / email: [email protected] / web: www.collsarms.freeserve.co.uk/cmouth.htm(1st & 3rd Thursdays + 2nd Wednesday)

> White Lion, 242 Manchester Road, Swinton, Salford, Lancs M27 4TS: Swinton Folk Club 8.30pm. Ged Todd 01942 811527. Website: http://homepage.ntlworld.com/davewynn (Mondays)

> White Lion Hotel, Church Brow, Halton, Lancaster LA2 6LR: Bluegrass & Old Time Session 8.30pm. All levels welcome. Mark Currie 01524 812264 or Bill Gilson 015397 35653 (Tuesdays)

> White Lion Hotel, Church Brow, Halton, Lancaster LA2 6LR: Folk Session. Contact 01524 761629 (Fridays)

> White Lion, Riley St, Earby, Lancs: Earby Folk Club 9pm. Contact Heather Sheldrick 01282 852898 (Thursdays)

> Woodlands Hotel, Woodlands Dr, Silverdale, Carnforth LA5 0RU: Bits & Pieces 8pm. Songs, poetry, prose & music. Contact 01524 701535 (2nd Thursday)

> Woodley Civic Hall, Hyde Rd, Woodley, Stockport SK6 1QG: Woodlarks Harmony Singing Workshop 1.30pm - 3.30pm. No auditions, no need to read music. £3.50 (£2.20 concs). Organiser: Faith Watson. Contact: Singing for Larks, 12 Lindow Rd, Manchester M16 0DP, tel 0161 881 0855. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.singingforlarks.co.uk (Thursdays)

> Ye Olde Man & Scythe, 6-8 Churchgate, Bolton BL1 1HL: Acoustic Session Open Evening starts 6pm. Free (Saturdays)

Advertise your Band / Event / Club / Festival / Shop / whatever...

All advertising must be prepaid. Cheques payable to "Joan Blackburn" should be sent to

Joan Blackburn, 66 Ince Green Lane, Wigan, Lancs WN2 2AR

Paid advertisements help to offset the costs of printing the paper edition, which is distributed free of charge. If you know of anyone who may benefit from advertising in Folkal Point, please ask them to contact me. Thank you.

I must have your name and postal address before I’ll consider publishing your message / letter here. You can, of course, request that these details be withheld, but I won’t publish without knowing who you are and where I can contact you.

Joan

8pm - 9pm Sounds of Folk Music, live guests, local info and diary dates presented by Ali O’Brien

BBC RADIO STOKE 94.6 & 104.1 FM / 1503 MW

8pm - 10pm Sunday Folk Show Presented by Genevieve Tudor

Hello Joan

I’ve just had a look at your website which is full of very useful information, but I wonder if you or any of your members can help.

I play in an 8 piece Irish band called "Beware of the Pig". We play traditional and contemporary Irish music. We all live in the Wigan & St Helens area and we are looking to make our own recording. Can you recommend a recording studio? Here’s the line-up: Lead singer & bodhran; bass guitar; guitar & mandolin; fiddle; flute; whistle; accordion; drum kit.

We’ve all been playing for a number of years and some of us have taken part in competitions here in the UK and the All Ireland Finals.

We’re playing at the Brian Boru in Ashton on the 16th April if you’re interested (come down for a Guinness).

Occasionally we need to bring in other musicians - are any of your members into playing Irish music? (This is not for beginners, though.)

Any info much appreciated.

Thanks.

Peter Andrews (received by email 29.2.04)

Barnoldwick’s first-ever folk and acoustic music day is planned for 25 September 2004. Workshops, craft stalls, dance displays and buskers taking place throughout the day, culminating in a main concert in the evening, plus pub singarounds. Some brilliant guests pencilled in so far - watch this space for more details, or email [email protected]. Contact: Heather.

Tracks: The Handloom Weavers’ Lament, I Means To Get Jolly Well Drunk, The Weaver Of Wellbrook, Merry Little Doffer, Bury New Loom, The Miners’ Lockout, Handloom v Powerloom, Tunes: T’owd Wife Of Coverdill / Lass Of Dallogill / My Love My Love, Welcome Bonny Brid, A Weaver.s Song, Manchester Canal, Hard Times, Frolicsome Kate, Bowton’s Yard, Billy Suet’s Song, Gettin’ Wed, Shurat Weaver’s Song, With Henry Hunt We’ll Go

Price £11 including p&p (if ordering more than one, just add another £10 for each extra copy). Cheques should be made payable to "Cock Robin Music". Available now (as of 9.1.04) from Mark at the Wooden Horse Folk Club on Sundays or by post - 143 Southport Rd, Ormskirk, Lancs L39 1LW. For further details telephone 01695 576215 / email [email protected]

Website: www.markdowding.co.uk

Tracks: Las Vegas (In The Hills Of Donegal), Spancil Hill / Toss The Feathers, A Bang On The Ear, Galway Girl, B.G. Polkas, Joyce Country Ceili Band, Body Of An American, Fisherman’s Blues, Never Mind The Strangers, Cooking With The Doc

Price £10. Special Offer: If you haven’t got their previous CD, "The Hunt Reilly", buy both CDs together for just £15. Contact One Hand Clapping at [email protected]

New Album from

Pete Rimmer Sarah Marks Roger Gardiner

The album features traditional and contemporary songs and instrumentals.

It’s available from Pete Rimmer at Gigs or the Bothy Folk Club or by post

6 Burlington Road, Birkdlae, Southport, Merseyside PR8 4RX, £10.00 post-free.

Email: [email protected]

To entertain in old peoples homes and day centres - mainly afternoon and early evening. "It’s paid work and there’s lots of it about." Contact Abacus Music (Pete Rimmer & Jill Fielding), 42 Church St, Ormskirk, Lancs L39 3AN. Tel 01695 587947 / 07972 623210. Email [email protected]. Website: www.abacusmusicagency.co.uk

Malcolm Rigby tells me they’re streaming again at KZSC. You can go to KZSC.UCSC.edu to get instructions on how to pick up the programme, so everyone who sent him CDs can listen to themselves again, if they stay up long enough. It goes out Mondays 3pm-6pm (local time), which is 11pm-2am BST. Recent plays have included Mark Dowding and Angie Blaydon, the Threlfalls, Jill Fielding, the Houghton Weavers, Carol Darwen and Nick Pantling, and Mary Humphries and Anahata.

(See "New Radio Programme Looking For CDs" below)

Some of you will know Malcolm Rigby, a Lancashire lad who’s now resident in California. He and his wife Bobby often visit back here in the UK, and are often to be seen at a good number of folk festivals over here. Malcolm ran a radio programme in California, but the station went all talk, so his music programme was lost. But the good news is that he now has a programme with another station covering roughly the same listening area, playing folk music and song from the British Isles and Ireland. The programme is called The Northern Bridge, and runs from 3pm - 6pm on Monday afternoons, local time (currently 10pm - 1am in the UK). The station is KZSC at 88.1FM, or www.KZSC.org on the web.

Malcolm would like to assure those artistes who have passed him their CDs, that they are getting an airing over there again, and that any others he receives will get an outing on the programme, particularly as he’s trying to feature good performers who aren’t known over there. If you want to send Malcolm your CD, email him at [email protected] for details of where to send it.

Price £6 at a Wench All gig, or £7 by post from P. Crewe, 38 Chatham Park Drive, Brierfield, Lancashire BB9 5QA (cheques payable to P. Crewe)

Tracks: You’re Only As Old, Little Willie, The Royal Charter, The Ballad of Scoonie’s Arse, The Potter’s Alphabet, ‘Orace ‘Oskins, Lozakin’ Abite, Lick ‘Em and Stick ‘Em, Absent Friends, Hear All See All, You’re Only As Old

Price £10.50 including p&p. Available by post (cheques payable to J. Parton) from His Worship and tghe Pig, 2 Birchgate Grove, Bucknall, Stoke-0n-Trent, Staffs ST2 8JU

Website: www.hisworshipandthepig.co.uk

Further info including How To Order: www.roseoftheribblevalley.com

Price £10 at Penny Black gigs, or add £2 ( p&p & ins) by post - send POs to P.O.Box 44, Blackpool FY3 8GP.

Further details of this and previous CDs on Penny Black’s website at www.pennyblackfolk.co.uk

Is available again from Pete at Gigs or the Bothy Folk Club or by post

6 Burlington Road Birkdale Southport Merseyside PR8 4RX £6.00 post-free.

The album features traditional and contemporary songs together with a few guitar instrumentals.

Helping Pete out on the album are Paul Reid,Bev Sanders and Bill Hackney.

Email: [email protected]

Price £10 (or £11 inc. p&p) direct from Hands In Pockets. Telephone 01925 767801 for details.

If you would like to receive the "monthly", please email me on: [email protected]

Your details will not be made available to any other parties

It is available on free email subscription. The paper edition is obtainable at the New Aeon Bookshop, Manchester; Daemon Books, Lancaster; Crystal Carol’s, Ashton-under-Lyne; Pisces Trust, Warrington Market; the Bowling Green Hotel, Swinley, Wigan; Wigan Folk Club; WasPsi meetings, Wigan; The Door meetings, Warrington; or contact Joan Blackburn on 01942 321223 / email [email protected]

I went down to St James Infirmary

Dm Am

To see my baby there

E Am

She was stretched on a long white table

C E Am

So cold, so sweet, so fair

Soon the doctor came in to see her

And put her in a bed

Took one look at her pale white colour

And said, "My boy, she’s dead."

Let her go, let her go, God bless her

Wherever she may be

She was all that I ever cared for

I loved her tenderly

We will take her out to the graveyard

We’ll ride a horse-drawn hack

There’ll be three people goin’ out there

But only two’ll come back

Let her go, let her go, God bless her

Wherever she may be

She was all that I ever cared for

I loved her tenderly

Am E Am Am7

I went down to St James Infirmary

This week’s song was requested by Vincent Gould. Further requests/suggestions for future Songs of the Week to Joan please. Requests have been received for enough songs for the next few weeks, including Twelve Gates, various songs of His Worship And The Pig, My Voice Keeps Changing On Me, and Sing Like No One’s Listening. Keep the requests coming!

> Albion Hotel, Wallasey: Albion Folk Club: Singers Night

> Black Horse, St Helens: Irish Night

> Blue Cat Cafe, Stockport: Lee Griffiths + Habanero + Stalker. 8pm. Free

> Blues Bar, Crosby, Liverpool: Acoustic Engine Sunday Sociable 2pm

> Bridgewater Hall, Lower Moseley St, Manchester M2 3WS: The Chieftains. £19.50 / £22.50 / £24.50. Tickets/Info 0161 907 9000

> Captain Nelson Tavern, Maryport, Cumbria: Blues on Sunday 4pm The Section

> Cross Keys, Uppermill: Singaround

> Cross Keys Inn, Chester: Raven Folk Club: Singaround

> Crown Hotel, Garstang: Crown Folk Club: Singers Night

> Dillon’s Whistlin’ Jig, Stockport: Irish Trad Music Session

> Freeholders Arms, Lancaster: Singers on Sunday: Singaround

> Halfway House, Blackpool: Singaround

> Irish Centre, Bolton: Comhaltas Irish Trad Music Session

> Jackson’s Pit, Oldham: Acoustica! Open Mic hosted by Darren Poyzer

> John Bull Chop House, Wigan: Acoustic Night

> Joseph O’Neill’s, 67 Duke St, St Helens WA10 2JF: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). 6pm. Info (venue) 01744 752433

> Junction, Rainford: Wooden Horse Folk Club: Robin Laing (web: www.folkmusic.net/robinlaing)

> Lamb, Halliwell Rd, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Old Manor Club, Wallasey: Folk at the Manor: Huw Chidgey & Catherine Handley (web: www.raglanrecords.co.uk)

> Ring o’ Bells, Warrington: Singaround

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: Quare Craic. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> Shelbourne Hotel, Southport: Bothy Folk Club: Singers Night

> Star Inn, Failsworth: Open Door Folk Club: Singaround

> Walton Folk Club: Singers Night

> Waterside, Kay Bridge, Summerseat, Bury BL9 5PE:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01706 822065

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Live Irish Music 2pm - 4pm & 8pm - 10.30pm: Sturdy Beggars

> BBC Radio Merseyside: Folkscene 7.05pm: with Stan Ambrose.

> BBC Radio Stoke: Genevieve Tudor: folk music 8pm

> BBC Radio Cumbria: Northern Folk 9pm; with Alistair Anderson

> Bacup Conservative Club: Bacup Folk Club: Singaround

> Bar Risa, Chorlton St, Manchester: Acoustica! Open Mic

> Beech Inn, Chorlton, Manchester: Tune session

> Blue Cat Cafe, Stockport: Acoustic Songwriters Night

> Farmers Arms, Frankby, Wirral: Folk Club: Singers & Musicians

> Green Dragon, St Helens: Green Dragon Folk Club: Singaround

> Guest House, Southport: Monthly Music & Song Session

> Jolly Angler, Manchester: Singaround

> New Land o’ Cakes, Manchester: Sound Check Acoustic Jam Night: Singer-Songwriter Open Mic

> Pot of Beer, Manchester: Trad music session

> Prospect Inn, Runcorn: Folk at the Prospect: Flossie

> Red Bull, Stockport: Red Bull Folk Club: George Papavgeris

> Red Lion, Newburgh: Room At The Top: Music, Verse & Whatever

> Revolution, Lancaster: LULUMS Open Mic

> Shippons, Irby: Folk Session

> Smugglers Den, Morecambe: Folk Session

> Spinners Arms, Adlington: Four Fools Songs & Music

> Victoria, Fleetwood: Musicians Session

> Victoria, Woolton Village, Liverpool: Acoustic Jam Night

> Waggon Inn, Uppermill: Singers Night

> White Lion, Swinton: Swinton Folk Club: Ron Trueman Border (web: www.folking.com/rontruemanborder)

> BBC GMR: The Parlour 7pm: Alan Keegan with Irish music

> BBC GMR: Sounds of Folk 8pm - 9pm with Ali O’Brien - prog available only on DAB or internet

> Alexander’s Jazz Theatre Bar, Chester: Unplugged Folk Night

> Atlantic (Banjo Bar), Liverpool: Atlantic Irish Night

> Bar, Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton, Manchester: Phat Tuesday: Chorlton Cajun Massive: Singers & Musicians

> Bruins Bar, Manchester: Open Mic Acoustic Night hosted by Chezz

> Bush Inn, Droylsden: Bush Acoustic Music Club: Singers Night

> Civil Service Sports & Social Club, St Annes: St Annes Acoustic Roots Club: Singers Night

> Crown, Stockport: Singaround/Open Mic

> Everyman Bistro, Liverpool: Singers Night

> Fox & Goose, Wigan Lane: Wigan Folk Club: Singaround

> Gregson Centre, Lancaster: Folk Music Session in Cafe/Bar

> Hilldale Village Hall, Parbold: Newburgh Morris Practice

> Horseshoe, Ringley: Singers Night

> Iguana Bar, Chorlton: Open Stage

> Longridge Royal British Legion: Longridge Folk Club: Saggy Bottom Girls + Amazing Dick

> Maghull Folk Club: Singers Night

> Oak Tree, Coppull: Musicians Session

> Peveril of the Peak, Manchester: Tune session

> Princess Hotel, Blackpool: Lancashire Meets Irish Folk Session

> Red Triangle Boxing Club, Liverpool: Johnson’s Acoustic Circus: Performers Night

> Roscoe’s Bar, Swinton: Sing When You’re Swiggin’: Acoustic Night

> Royal Oak, Littleborough: Royal Oak Folk Club: Singers Night

> Southern Hotel, Chorlton, Manchester: Tuesday Night Blues Club: Acoustic Open Mic hosted by Depot

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> White Lion, Halton, Lancaster: Bluegrass & Old Time Session

> Abbey Bar, St Petersgate, Stockport: Songwriters Night

> Alison Arms, Coppull: Singaround

> Barley Mow, Warrington: Essential Songwriters Night

> Bay Horse, Horwich: Raglan

> Bridge Inn, Port Sunlight: Bromborough Folk Club: Singers Night

> Chillies Wine Bar, Wavertree, Liverpool: Catacoustic: Open Mic

> Cross Keys, Uppermill: Cross Keys Folk Club: Anthony John Clarke (web: www.anthonyjohnclarke.com)

> Falcon Hotel, Poulton-le-Fylde: Folk at the Falcon: Singaround

> Fleece Inn, Blackburn: Blackburn Folk Club: Singers Night

> Friends Meeting House, Lancaster: Taize - Harmony Singing for Peace

> Junction, Rainford: Bluegrass Workshop 7.30pm; Session 9pm

> New Britannia Inn, Preston: Singers Night

> Pogue Mahone’s, Liverpool: Irish tune session

> Railway, Heatley, Lymm: Songs in the Snug: Singaround

> Scarisbrick Arms, Downholland: Folk Club: Singers Night

> Shenanigan’s, Bootle: Irish Trad Music Session

> Union Vaults, Chester: Singaround & Music Session

> Upton Royal British Legion Club: Jacqui’s Folk Club: Singers Night

> Waggon & Horses, Burnley: Burnley Folk Club: Singers & Musicians

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Live Irish Music

> BBC Radio 2: Mike Harding 8pm

> Arden Arms, Millgate, Stockport: Song Carriers Folk Club: Singaround

> Bell & Barrel, St Helens: Blues Jam Night

> Castle Hotel, Oldham St, Manchester: Monthly Acoustica! Open Mic

> Cavern, Liverpool: Open Mic 6pm-ish - 8.30pm-ish; featured artiste 8.30pm-ish - 9pm-ish

> Coopers Tap, Morecambe: Open Stage

> Gregson Centre, Lancaster: HoBow Fiddle Workshop 6pm - 8pm

> Gregson Centre, Lancaster: Folk Music Session in Cafe/Bar

> Honky Tonk Cafe, Hotel California, 2 New Chester Rd, Tranmere, Birkenhead: Route 666 (blues). 9pm. Free

> Hop Pocket, Chorley: Blues Night

> Irish World Heritage Centre, Manchester: Irish music session

> Jolly Angler, Manchester: Irish Trad Music Session

> Magazine Hotel, Wallasey: Magazine Folk Club: Singers Night

> Railway, Heatley, Lymm: Railway Folk Club: Allan Taylor (singer-songwriter - web: www.allantaylor.com)

> St Anne’s Parish Club, Ormskirk: Bluegrass/Acoustic Country Night with the Britannia Bluegrass Band

> St Luke’s Community Centre, Salford: The Barflies + Open Mic

> Seven Stars Hotel, Wallgate, Wigan: Wigan Folk Club: Singaround

> Ship Inn, Haskayne, nr Ormskirk: Folk Club: Singers Night

> South West Manchester Cricket Club: Chorlton Folk Club: Singers Night

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Fleetwood Folk Club: Singers Night

> Swan Inn, Dobcross: Session

> Thirsty Scholar, Manchester: Ria Bright 10pm

> Volunteer Arms, Bromley Cross, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Sturdy Beggars

> White Lion, Riley St, Earby: Earby Folk Club: Singaround

> Woodley Civic Hall, Stockport: Woodlarks Harmony Singing Workshop 1.30pm - 3.30pm

> BBC Radio Lancashire: The Drift 8 - 9pm with Phil Brown

> Bell & Barrel, 58 Nth John St, St Helens WA10 2JT: The Blues Blasters. Info (venue) 01744 25140

> Castle Hotel, Oldham St, Manchester: Instrumental Session

> Dog & Partridge, Bollington: Bollington Folk Club: Kieran Halpin (web: www.kieranhalpin.com)

> Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Abbey Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5QR: Kyla Brox Band (blues). Info (venue) 01229 821039

> Hare & Hounds, Manchester: Full Circle Folk Club: Singers Night

> Harlequin Theatre, Northwich: Northwich Folk Club: Singers Night

> Hinds Head, Charnock Richard: Musicians Session

> Leigh Folk Club: Captain Cooper’s Motley Crew

> Moorbrook Inn, Preston: Preston Folk Club: Singaround

> Pacific Road Arts & Entertainment Centre, Pacific Rd, Woodside, Birkenhead CH41 1LJ: Angel Brothers. Info 0151 666 5023

> Queens Head Inn, Frodsham: Frodsham Folk Club: Jez Lowe (web: www.jezlowe.com)

> Railway Inn, Greenfield: Open Mic Acoustic Night

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: The Section (blues). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> St Michael’s Irish Centre, Liverpool: Comhaltas Irish Trad Music Session

> Scruffy Murphys, 32 Corporation St, Blackpool FY1 1EJ: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01253 624538

> Sun Inn, Macclesfield: Irish Trad Music Session

> Swan, Middleton, Carnforth: Bluegrass Night

> View Two Gallery, Liverpool: Monthly Alchemy Acoustic Night hosted by Bobhowla

> Waggon Inn, Uppermill: Singers Night

> Walton Folk Club: Singers Night

> Westhoughton Folk Club: Allan Taylor (singer-songwriter - web: www.allantaylor.com) & John Wright (web: www.johnwrightband.com) (duo) - changed venue tonight: Douglas Valley Golf Club, Blackrod

> White Lion, Halton, Lancaster: Folk Session

Monthly Friday Concerts at Leigh Conservative Club, Railway Rd, Leigh WN7 4AX

24 September: Captain Cooper’s Motley Crew

29 October: Pete Coe

Concerts start at 8.15pm and are supported by Calico

For tickets and further info contact Pauline Dowsett 01942 604603 or Des on 01942 604868

email: [email protected]

> 12 Bar, 40-42 Church St, Preston PR1 3DH: Bluesline (blues - web: www.howed99.fsnet.co.uk). Info (venue) 01772 827636

> Brian Boru Club, Ashton-in-Makerfield: Comhaltas music classes 1.30pm

> Buffet Bar, Platform One, Stalybridge Railway Station: Folk Club: Singers Night

> Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Abbey Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5QR: Tony Auton Band (blues). Info (venue) 01229 821039

> Jolly Angler, Manchester: Irish Trad Music Session

> The Mop (Weavers Arms), Halliwell, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Rattan and Rush, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria: Phil Beer & Deb Sandland

> Royal British Legion, 99 Greystone Rd, Penketh, Warrington WA5 2DS: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01925 723382

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA:Celtic Cross (web: www.celticcross.co.uk). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> St Anne’s Parish Hall, Shevington: Standish Folk Club: Kieran Halpin (web: www.kieranhalpin.com)

> Smithy Manor, Jubits Lane, Sutton Manor, St Helens WA9 4BB:Celtic Vibes (web: www.celticvibes.co.uk). Info (venue) 01744 817657

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: The Indians. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> Southport Arts Centre, Lord St, Southport PR8 1DB: Sherman Robertson (blues) + Blues Move. 01704 540011

> Touchstones Rochdale: Monthly Community Drumming Circle 11am - 1.30pm

> Ye Olde Man & Scythe, Bolton: Acoustic Session

> BBC Radio Wales: Celtic Heartbeat 10pm with Frank Hennessy

Saturday 25 September 2004

> Barlick Unplugged, Barnoldswick, Lancashire. Heather Sheldrick. Tel 01282 852898. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.barlickunplugged.co.uk. Artistes: John Tams & Barry Coope + Oldham Tinkers + His Worship & The Pig + Anne Lister + Grace Notes + Sad Pig + Keepers Fold + NowThen + Ben Needham & Robin Petty + Karen & Colin Thompson ++

> Astley Arms, Chapel Hill, Dukinfield: Monthly Open Mic & SongwriterNight hosted by Ann English

> Black Horse, St Helens: Irish Night

> Blues Bar, Crosby, Liverpool: Acoustic Engine Sunday Sociable 2pm

> Captain Nelson Tavern, Maryport, Cumbria: Blues on Sunday 4pm

> Cross Keys, Uppermill: Singaround

> Cross Keys Inn, Chester: Raven Folk Club: Singaround

> Crown Hotel, Garstang: Crown Folk Club: Singers Night

> Dillon’s Whistlin’ Jig, Stockport: Irish Trad Music Session

> Freeholders Arms, Lancaster: Singers on Sunday: Singaround

> Halfway House, Blackpool: Singaround

> Jackson’s Pit, Oldham: Acoustica! Open Mic hosted by Darren Poyzer

> Junction, Rainford: Wooden Horse Folk Club: Singers night

> Lamb, Halliwell Rd, Bolton: Buskers Ball

> Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays M5 2AZ: Janis Ian (web: www.janisian.com). Box Office 0161 876 2000

> Manchester Academy (Manchester University Students Union), 269 Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PQ: David Mead (singer-songwriter) 7.30pm. £7.50 adv. 0161 275 2930

> Old Manor Club, Wallasey: Folk at the Manor: Singers Night

> Ring o’ Bells, Warrington: Singaround

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: Quare Craic. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> Scholars Bar, John Moores University Students Union, Haigh Building, Maryland St, Liverpool L1 9DE: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (Students Union) 0151 231 4900

> Shelbourne Hotel, Southport: Bothy Folk Club: Singers Night

> Star Inn, Failsworth: Open Door Folk Club: Geoff Higginbottom

> Walshaw Sports Club, Tottington, Bury: Walshaw Folk Club: Singers Night

> Walton Folk Club: Singers Night

> Waterside, Kay Bridge, Summerseat, Bury BL9 5PE:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01706 822065

> Waxy O’Connor’s, Manchester: Live Irish Music 2pm - 4pm & 8pm - 10.30pm: Sturdy Beggars

> BBC Radio Merseyside: Folkscene 7.05pm: with Stan Ambrose.

> BBC Radio Stoke: Genevieve Tudor: folk music 8pm

> BBC Radio Cumbria: Northern Folk 9pm; with Alistair Anderson

> Bacup Conservative Club: Bacup Folk Club: Bandersnatch (web: www.bandersnatch.org.uk)

> Cumberland Arms, Hindley: Monthly Verse & Worse

Next meetings: Sep 27, Oct 25, Nov 22

For further info contact Joe on 01942 215775

> Clog & Billycock, Blackburn: Fortnightly Singers Night

> George, Sandbach: Sandbach Unplugged: Anthony John Clarke (singer-songwriter - web: www.anthonyjohnclarke.com)

> Nursery Inn, Stockport: Why Worry Monthly Songwriters Club

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> Cross Keys, Uppermill: Cross Keys Folk Club: Risky Business (new CD: Home Again - web: www.riskybusiness.uk.net)

> Farmers Glory Inn, Roundhill Rd, Haslingden, Rossendale BB4 5TU:Moorland Folk (web: www.moorlandfolk.btinternet.co.uk). Info (venue) 01706 215748

> Alexander’s Jazz Theatre Bar, 2 Rufus Court, Chester CH1 2JW: John O’Leary’s Band (blues). Info (venue) 01244 340005

> Biddulph Labour Club, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent: Biddulph Folk Club. Allan Taylor (singer-songwriter - web: www.allantaylor.com) - Extra Night

> Boar Hound, Macclesfield: Monthly Folk Club: Singers Night

> Boathouse, Neston: Parkgate Folk Club: Vin Garbutt (web: www.vingarbutt.com)- Ticket Only

> St Joseph’s Social Centre, Hogton, Preston: Gregson Lane Folk Club: Singers Night

> Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Queens Promenade, Blackpool FY2 9RW:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). Info (venue) 01253 357696

> Bay Horse, 206 Lee Lane, Horwich, Bolton BL6 7JF: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01204 696231

> Coach House, Carlisle: Carlisle Folk & Blues Club: Steve Tilston (web: www.stevetilston.freeola.com)

> Met Theatre, Market St, Bury BL9 0BW:Vin Garbutt (web: www.vingarbutt.com). Tickets/Info 0161 761 2216

> Royal British Legion, Poynton: Porkies Folk Club: Allan Taylor (singer-songwriter - web: www.allantaylor.com)

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: Moons of Venus. Info (venue) 01254 883541

> St John’s Church Hall, Warrington Rd, Abram, Wigan: Barn Dance with hot pot supper 8pm - 11.30pm. Tickets £6. Info (venue) 01942 866396

> West Cheshire Sailing Club, Wallasey: Monthly Folk Club

> Westhoughton Folk Club: Real Time (web: www.realtime.uk.net) - changed venue tonight: Douglas Valley Golf Club, Blackrod

> Bowling Green, Manchester Rd, Leigh, Lancs WN7 2LD:Celtic Vibes (web: www.celticvibes.co.uk). Info (venue) 01942 673964

> Bridge Inn, Port Sunlight: Bromborough Folk Club: Dangerous Curves

> Catholic Childrens Rescue Society Conference Centre, grounds of Francis House Children’s Hospice, 390 Parrswood Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5NA: ‘Singing Foe Larks’ Jazz & Swing Harmonies one-day workshop with Faith Watson 10am - 4pm. Further details / booking form from Singing For Larks, 12 Lindow Rd, Manchester M16 0DP / tel 0161 881 0855 / email: [email protected]

> Falstaff Inn, Southport: Monthly afternoon Music & Song Session

> Fosters Arms, Barnoldswick: Monthly Folk at t’Fosters

> Gracie Fields Theatre, Hudsons Walk, Rochdale:Houghton Weavers (web: www.houghtonweavers.com). Info (venue) 01706 645522

> Lancaster Castle, Lancaster: Five In A Bar. 7.30pm. (folk, traditional & contemporary classics) Info (venue) 01524 64998 / www.lancastercastle.com

> Lord Rodney, 67 Winwick Rd, Warrington WA2 7DH: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01925 234296

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: Noel Cassidy. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> St Mary’s Parish Centre, Oswaldtwistle: Monthly Folk Club

> Worden Arts & Crafts Centre, Worden Park, Leyland PR5 2DJ: Vin Garbutt (web: www.vingarbutt.com). Box Office 01772 455908

> Crofters Arms, 14 Market St, Wigan WN1 1HX: Paddywack. 2.30pm (Irish trio) Info (venue) 01942 236916

> Irish World Heritage Centre, 10 Queens Rd, Manchester M8 8UF:Celtic Vibes (web: www.celticvibes.co.uk). Info 0161 205 4007

> John Bull Chop House, Wigan: Acoustic Night

> Joseph O’Neill’s, 67 Duke St, St Helens WA10 2JF:Celtic Vibes (web: www.celticvibes.co.uk). Info (venue) 01744 752433

> McHale’s Irish American Bar, 53-56 Lime St, Liverpool L1 1JQ: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). 10pm. Info (venue) 0151 709 1538

> Theatre by the Lake, Lakeside, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DJ:Houghton Weavers (web: www.houghtonweavers.com). Box Office 017687 74411

> Waterside, Kay Bridge, Summerseat, Bury BL9 5PE:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). 8.30pm. Info (venue) 01706 822065

> Chetham Arms, Edgworth: Monthly Folk Music Session

> Prospect Inn, Runcorn: Folk at the Prospect: Mike Nicholson (web: www.folkmusic.net/mikenicholson)

> Telfords Warehouse, Tower Wharf, Chester CH1 4EZ: John Renbourn & Jacqui McShee. Info (venue) 01244 390090

> White Lion, Swinton: Swinton Folk Club: Pete Ryder

> BBC GMR: The Parlour 7pm: Alan Keegan with Irish music - live from St Joseph’s Convent, Plymouth Grove, Longsight

> Fox & Hounds, Urmston: Monthly Urmston Acoustics

> Puss in Boots, Macclesfield: Monthly Singaround

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> Clarence Hotel, Blackpool: Folk Club: Allan Taylor (singer-songwriter - web: www.allantaylor.com)

> Farmers Glory Inn, Roundhill Rd, Haslingden, Rossendale BB4 5TU:Celtic Cross (web: www.celticcross.co.uk). Info (venue) 01706 215748

> Life Cafe, 23 Peter St, Manchester M2 5QR: Laura Veirs (Seattle-based singer-songwriter. Albums: Troubled By The Fire and Carbon Glacier) + Mary Lee’s Corvette. Info (venue) 0161 833 3000

> Rawhide Comedy Club, Liverpool: BBC Radio 2 are recording a live concert by Janis Ian (web: www.janisian.com) presented by Mike Harding. Tickets free via Radio 2 website: www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/r2music/folk/harding

> Alexander’s Jazz Theatre Bar, 2 Rufus Court, Chester CH1 2JW: Hucklebuck (blues). Info (venue) 01244 340005

> Biddulph Labour Club, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent: Biddulph Folk Club. Bob Fox (web: www.bobfoxmusic.com)

> Buxton Opera House, Water St, Buxton:Beth Nielsen Chapman plus special guest David Ogilvy. Box Office 0845 127 2190

> Nightjar Folk Club, Hereford: Howdenjones (web: www.howdenjones.co.uk). Contact 01432 851205

> NUPRO, Liverpool Rd, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan WN4 9LH:Dixieland Troubadours. 8pm. £4 / concs £3. Details 01942 727119

> Top Lock Hotel, Copthurst Lane, Wheelton, Heapey, Chorley PR6 8LS: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01257 263376

> Ulverston Sports Club: South Lakes Folk Club: Vin Garbutt (web: www.vingarbutt.com)

> Masonic Lodge, Uppermill: Safra Club: Monthly Big Sing

> Pacific Road Arts & Entertainment Centre, Pacific Rd, Woodside, Birkenhead CH41 1LJ:Martin Simpson (new CD: Righteousness And Humidity). Info 0151 666 5023

> Railway Hotel, Butler St, Preston PR1 8BN: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01772 253951

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: Cartoon Dog. Info (venue) 01254 883541

> Top Lock Hotel, Copthurst Lane, Wheelton, Heapey, Chorley PR6 8LS: Celtic Cross (web: www.celticcross.co.uk). Info (venue) 01257 263376

> Victoria, Widnes: Ballistic Acoustic -Open Mic for songwriters

> Westhoughton Folk Club: Back of the Moon (web: www.backofthemoon.co.uk) - changed venue tonight: Douglas Valley Golf Club, Blackrod

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: Blue Tooth (blues). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> Shelbourne Hotel, Southport: Bothy Folk Club: Louis Killen

> Star Inn, Failsworth: Open Door Folk Club: Dave Gibb

> Black Horse, Limbrick: Monthly Singaround

> Clog & Billycock, Blackburn: Fortnightly Singers Night

> Navigation, Heaton Norris, Stockport: Monthly Let It Roll Open Mic

> Pacific Road Arts & Entertainment Centre, Pacific Rd, Woodside, Birkenhead CH41 1LJ:Beth Nielsen Chapman plus special guest David Ogilvy. Box Office 0151 647 0752

> Saddle Club, Birkenhead: Monthly Singaround

> Sefton Park Cricket Club, Liverpool: Jacqui’s Folk Club: Monthly Singers Night

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> Brewood Folk Club, Staffs: Howdenjones (web: www.howdenjones.co.uk). Contact 01902 850256

> NUPRO, Liverpool Rd, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan WN4 9LH:Auld Triangle. 8pm. £4 / concs £3. Details 01942 727119

> Raven Inn, Winsford: Monthly Acoustic/Singers Night

> St Joseph’s Social Centre, Hogton, Preston: Gregson Lane Folk Club: Ben Wood

> Woodlands, Silverdale: Monthly Bits & Pieces

> Civic Hall, Willow Park Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HJ:Houghton Weavers (web: www.houghtonweavers.com). Info (venue) 01722 865872

> Coach House, Carlisle: Carlisle Folk & Blues Club: Emily Smith Band

> Dog & Partridge, Bollington: Bollington Folk Club: Jez Lowe & The Bad Pennies (web: www.jezlowe.com)

> Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Abbey Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5QR: Groove Doctors (blues). Info (venue) 01229 821039

> Harlequin Theatre, Northwich: Northwich Folk Club: Dangerous Curves

> Kings Arms, 144 Bawdlands, Clitheroe, Lancs BB7 2LA: The Stumble (blues - web: mysite.freeserve.com/thestumble). Info (venue) 01200 422450

> Lowton Civic Halls, Hesketh Meadow Lane, Lowton, nr Warrington: Irish Night with Beware of the Pig. In aid of St Catherine’s Scouts & Guides. Tickets & details from Julie 01942 741511

> NALGO Club, Alder Rd, Liverpool: Monthly Jam Session at the Nalgo

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: Armadillos (blues). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> St Kentigern’s Social Club, Hart Rd, Manchester M14 7BB: Mick Flaven. Info (venue) 0161 224 2033

> Scruffy Murphys, 32 Corporation St, Blackpool FY1 1EJ: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01253 624538

> Westhoughton Folk Club: Bernard Carney

> Acousticity, Colchester: Howdenjones (web: www.howdenjones.co.uk). Contact 01206 503680

> Musketeer, 15 Lord St, Leigh WN7 1AB: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 01942 701143

> Rattan and Rush, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria: Helen Watson

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: All Three Cylinders (blues). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> Stanley Street Social Club, 58-60 Stanley St, Accrington BB5 6PQ:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). Info (venue) 01254 301605

> Wrigley Head Day of Dance, Stalybridge, Cheshire. Mike Booth (Wrigley Head Morris), Tel 01704 567038. Format: Morris

> Captain Nelson Tavern, Maryport, Cumbria: Blues on Sunday 4pm Groove Doctors

> John Bull Chop House, Wigan: Acoustic Night

> Junction, Rainford: Wooden Horse Folk Club: John Prentice

> Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays M5 2AZ: Nanci Griffith. Box Office 0161 876 2000

> Old Manor Club, Wallasey: Folk at the Manor: Dear Gregory

> Palace Theatre, Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT: Lonnie D, the Legendary King of Skiffle - the story of Lonnie Donegan, starring Peter Donegan + Anthony Donegan + Live Skiffle Group & full supporting cast. Box Office 0161 242 2524

> Reddish Working Mens Club, Greg St, South Reddish, Stockport SK5 7LN:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). Info (venue) 0161 480 5062

> Green Dragon, St Helens: Green Dragon Folk Club: Howdenjones (web: www.howdenjones.co.uk)

> Guest House, Southport: Monthly Music & Song Session

> White Lion, Swinton: Swinton Folk Club: Des Friel

> BBC GMR: The Parlour 7pm: Alan Keegan with Irish music - live from Levenshulme Village Festival

Monday 18 October - Sunday 24 October 2004

> City of Preston Jazz & Blues Festival, Preston, Lancashire. Brian Gumbley, 12 Churchfield, Fulwood, Preston, Lancs PR2 8GS. Tel/Fax 01772 712861. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.feastofjazz.co.uk. Artistes: Blues Band + Alan Barnes + Tony Faulkner Jazz Orchestra + Ken Colyer Trust Band ++

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> Boars Head Hotel, Middlewich: Open Mike Night hosted by the Salt Town Poets

> Priory Club, Broadfield Dr, Leyland: Monthly Leyland Accordion Club

> Alexander’s Jazz Theatre Bar, 2 Rufus Court, Chester CH1 2JW: Matt Schofield Trio (blues). Info (venue) 01244 340005

> Biddulph Labour Club, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent: Biddulph Folk Club. Mundy-Turner (web: www.mundy-turner.com)

> High Cross Inn, Broughton-in-Furness, Cumbria LA20 6ES:Howdenjones (web: www.howdenjones.co.uk). Info (venue) 01229 716272

> Railway, Heatley, Lymm: Railway Folk Club: Bernard Cromarty (web: www.cromarty.freeserve.co.uk)

Thursday 21 October - Sunday 24 October 2004

> Liverpool Irish Festival, The Peoples Centre, The Picket, 24 Hardman St, Liverpool L1 9AX. Tel 0151 722 2377. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.liverpoolirishfestival.com. Artistes: Christy Moore + Declan Sinnott ++

> The Hollywood, 12 Bloom St, Stockport SK3 9LA: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (venue) 0161 480 6525

> Philharmonic Hall, 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX:Christy Moore (web: www.christymoore.com) + Declan Sinnott. 0151 709 3789. A Liverpool Irish Festival Event

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: Ring Meisters(blues). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> Telfords Warehouse, Tower Wharf, Chester CH1 4EZ: Ian Parker Band. Info (venue) 01244 390090

> Westhoughton Folk Club: Eileen McGann & David K (web: www.cadvision.com/mcgannf)

> Worden Arts & Crafts Centre (Marsden Theatre), Worden Park, Leyland PR5 2DJ: Trouble At’ Mill (web: www.btinternet.com/~troubleatmill). Tickets 01254 853929

> Brewery Arts Centre, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4HE: Chumbawamba. Tickets/Info 01539 725133

> Embleton Village Hall, Embleton, nr Cockermouth, Cumbria: Embleton Live: Chris While & Julie Matthews (web: www.whileandmatthews.co.uk) 8.15pm. Terry Haworth 01900 604765 / [email protected]

> General Gordon Hotel, Halifax Rd, Nelson, Lancs BB9 0ED: Marauders (blues - web: www.timeware.co.uk/marauders). Info (venue) 01282 612089

> Greyhound Hotel, Manchester Rd, Barnoldswick, Colne, Lancs BB18 5PW: The Stumble (blues - web: mysite.freeserve.com/thestumble). Info (venue) 01282 812121

> Lord Rodney, 67 Winwick Rd, Warrington WA2 7DH:Celtic Cross (web: www.celticcross.co.uk). Info (venue) 01925 234296

> Philharmonic Hall, 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX:Christy Moore (web: www.christymoore.com) + Declan Sinnott. 0151 709 3789. A Liverpool Irish Festival Event

> Playhouse 2, Newtown St, Shaw, Oldham OL2 8NX: Connie Lush & Blues Shouter. Info Barrie Cottam 01706 847494

> Royal Hotel, Station Rd, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7BA: Hair of the Dog (blues). Info (venue) 01254 883541

> Open Door Folk Club Extravaganza 7, Star Inn, Failsworth, Manchester. Pauline Westall. Tel 0161 681 3618. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.opendoorfolkclub.co.uk. Artiostes: Jez Lowe & the Bad Pennies + Elaine & Sam Bracken

> Scholars Bar, John Moores University Students Union, Haigh Building, Maryland St, Liverpool L1 9DE: One Hand Clapping (web: www.one-hand-clapping.co.uk). Info (Students Union) 0151 231 4900

> Shelbourne Hotel, Southport: Bothy Folk Club: Vikki & Trefor Williams

> Cumberland Arms, Hindley: Monthly Verse & Worse

> Clog & Billycock, Blackburn: Fortnightly Singers Night

> Nursery Inn, Stockport: Why Worry Monthly Songwriters Club

> Philharmonic Hall, 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX: The Waterboys (web: www.mikescottwaterboys.com). 0151 709 3789

> Steamer, Fleetwood: Penny Black 11.30am - 2pm. Lancashire Hotch Potch & collection for ARC "Make Music Live" campaign

> Boar Hound, Macclesfield: Monthly Folk Club: Singers Night

> Boathouse, Neston: Parkgate Folk Club: Bob Fox (web: www.bobfoxmusic.com)

> Bridgewater Hall, Lower Moseley St, Manchester M2 3WS: The Waterboys Acoustic (web: www.mikescottwaterboys.com). £17.50 / £20. Tickets/Info 0161 907 9000

> Castle Hotel, Oldham St, Manchester: Monthly Acoustica! Open Mic

> St Joseph’s Social Centre, Hogton, Preston: Gregson Lane Folk Club: Singers Night

> Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Queens Promenade, Blackpool FY2 9RW:Swing Commanders (web: fooarchive.com/sc). Info (venue) 01253 357696

> Swinton Folk Festival, White Lion, 242 Manchester Road, Swinton, Salford, Lancs M27 4TS. Dave Polshaw 0161 737 5069; Dave Wynn 0161 793 6556; Ged Todd 01942 811527

> Opera House, Winter Gardens, Blackpool: Van Morrison. Box Office 01253 292029 / 0870 444 5556

> Bridgewater Hall, Lower Moseley St, Manchester M2 3WS: Van Morrison. Tickets/Info 0161 907 9000

> Manchester Evening News Arena, Victoria Station, Manchester M3 1WY: The Corrs. Box Office 0870 190 8000

> Bridgewater Hall, Lower Moseley St, Manchester M2 3WS: Eric Bibb & friends - Martin Simpson (new CD: Righteousness And Humidity) + Ruthie Foster. £12 / £14 / £16. Tickets/Info 0161 907 9000

Thursday 11 November - Friday 26 November 2004

> International Guitar Festival of Great Britain, Birkenhead, Merseyside. Pacific Road Arts & Entertainment Centre, Pacific Rd, Woodside, Birkenhead CH41 1LJ. Tel 0151 666 5023. Artistes: Midge Ure + Ralph McTell + Woody Mann + The Hamsters + Catfish Keith + Glenn Tilbrook + Judy Tzuke + Show of Hands ++

> Maghull Town Hall, Hall Lane, Maghull, Merseyside: Maghull Day of Music: Bob Fox + Alan Bell Band. Tickets £4 from Joe Ryan 0151 531 9273 / Jane Day 0151 526 6661 / Mikki Boardman 0151 526 1082 / email: [email protected]

> Preston Guildhall & Charter Theatre, Lancaster Rd, Preston PR1 1HT: Charlie Landsborough (web: www.charlielandsborough.com). Tickets/Info 01772 258858

> Maghull Town Hall, Hall Lane, Maghull, Merseyside: Maghull Day of Music: Oldham Tinkers + Roy Bailey + John Tams & Barry Coope + Niamh Parsons & Graham Dunne + Malinky + Flook + Derek Brimstone + Witches of Elswick + Back In Business + Bill Elliott Band. Admission by ticket only - Tickets £13. Joe Ryan 0151 531 9273 / Jane Day 0151 526 6661 / Mikki Boardman 0151 526 1082 / email: [email protected]

> St Williams College, York: Artisan’s Great Northern Voice Weekend. Workshops for basic voice techniques, harmony singing, singing masterclass, songwriting, music business, harmony arrangement. Cost: Weekend £65 / One day £40 (Saturday evening meal optional extra). Further details and booking forms from: Artisan, 10 Park Head, Birdsedge, Huddersfield HD8 8XW or phone Jacey Bedford on 01484 606230 / web: www.artisan-harmony.com

> Floral Pavilion Theatre, New Brighton: Lonnie D, the Legendary King of Skiffle - the story of Lonnie Donegan, starring Peter Donegan + Anthony Donegan + Live Skiffle Group & full supporting cast. Box Office 0151 639 4630

> Philharmonic Hall, 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX:Charlie Landsborough (web: www.charlielandsborough.com). Box Office 0151 709 3789

> Bridgewater Hall, Lower Moseley St, Manchester M2 3WS: Ladysmith Black Mambazo. £19.50 / £23 / £26. Tickets/Info 0161 907 9000

> Manchester Evening News Arena, Victoria Station, Manchester M3 1WY: The Pogues - full original lineup (web: www.shanemacgowan.com) plus special guests The Saw Doctors (new CD: Live In Galway - web: www.sawdoctors.com). Box Office 0870 190 8000 / 0161 832 1111

> Grand Theatre, Church St, Blackpool FY1 1HT: Lonnie D, the Legendary King of Skiffle - the story of Lonnie Donegan, starring Peter Donegan + Anthony Donegan + Live Skiffle Group & full supporting cast. Box Office 01253 290190

> Winsford Civic Hall, Dene Drive, Winsford, Cheshire CW7 1AX: Lonnie D, the Legendary King of Skiffle - the story of Lonnie Donegan, starring Peter Donegan + Anthony Donegan + Live Skiffle Group & full supporting cast. Box Office 01606 867539

37-39 Wigan Lane, Wigan WN1 1XR

262 Wallgate, Wigan WN3 5AR

There is an open music policy - anything you want to sing or play is acceptable as long as it’s acoustic. Free food is provided every week at all venues.

For further info contact Joan Blackburn 01942 321223

web: www.wiganfolkclub.co.uk

Otley Black Sheep Folk Festival. Derek Haller, PO Box 55, Otley, W Yorks, LS21 1XP. Tel 01943 464858. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.otleyfolkfestival.fsnet.co.uk. Artistes: Phil Beer & Deb Sandland + Jez Lowe & the Bad Pennies + Maggie Boyle + Alistair Hulett + Janet Russell + Ray Hearne + Les Barker + Ola + Grace Notes + Robin Garside + Duncan McFarlane Band + Mary Humphreys & Anahata + Mundy-Turner + Peeping Tom + Hall Brothers + Ramon + Avalon + Ian Hill + Pepper in the Brandy + Coope Boyes & Simpson + Chris While & Julie Matthews + Stanley Accrington + Sarah Lawton + Niblick + Tom Napper & Tom Bliss + Bayou Gumbo + Glen Folk + Malcolm Devereux + Northern Lights + Friendly Visit + FM Band + Quelle Fromage + Silsden Singers + Shellback Chorus + Jim Lawton + Flossie Malavialle + Whitney Gin + Pigs Ear Band + Tony Martin & Roger Knowles ++

Appledram Beer Festival, Pump Bottom Farm, Appledram, Chichester. Tel 01243 773828 / 539072. Web: www.bluesonthefarm.com. Artistes: Mike Sanchez & His Blues Revue + Lunasa + Fairport Convention ++

Cornish Bluegrass Festival, Hendra Holiday Park, Newquay. Secretary, Lorraine Moore, 28 Fore Street, Camborne, Cornwall TR14 8AZ. Tel 01209 719897. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.hendra-holidays.com (no festival webpage)

Solent Folk Festival, Woolston Community Centre, Southampton. Solent Folk Festival, 3 Cranbury Road, Woolston, Southampton SO19 2HZ. Jane & Trevor, Tel 02380 456337, email: [email protected]; or Sandy & Sam, tel 02380 43209; or Maureen & Barry, tel 02380 432216, email: [email protected]. Web: www.focsle.org.uk/solfolk. Artistes: John Tams & Barry Coope + Steafan Hannigan & Saskia Tomkins ++

Thursday 23 September - Sunday 17 October 2004

Wooburn Festival. Box Office, Freepost, PO Box 1246, Bourne End SL8 5XA. Tel 01628 524243. Fax 0870 132 3249. Email: [email protected]. Artistes: John Tams & Barry Coope ++

Friday 24 September - Saturday 25 September 2004

Blues at the Fort, Fort Purbrook, Portsmouth, Hants. Gerry Woods, 37 Southbrook Road, Havant, Hampshire PO9 1RL. Mobile 07973 117208. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.bluesatthefort.com. Artistes: Sherman Robertson with Bluesmove + Bad Influence + White Knuckle Blues Band + Cadillac Kings + Blackjacks + This Way Up

Saturday 25 September 2004

Barlick Unplugged, Barnoldswick, Lancashire. Heather Sheldrick. Tel 01282 852898. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.barlickunplugged.co.uk. Artistes: John Tams & Barry Coope + Oldham Tinkers + His Worship & The Pig + Anne Lister + Grace Notes + Sad Pig + Keepers Fold + NowThen + Ben Needham & Robin Petty + Karen & Colin Thompson ++

Saturday 25 September 2004

Folk All Around Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire. (postponed from June) Peter / Pen, Tel 01608 642296. Email: [email protected]. Web: homepage.mac.com/greenwoodallum. Artistes: Demon Barbers + John Spiers & John Boden ++

Saturday 25 September 2004

Traditions, Halifax. Pete Coe, Ryburn 3-Step, 103 Oldham Rd, Ripponden, W. Yorks HX6 4EB. Tel 01422 822569. Email: [email protected]. Website: halifaxtraditions.co.uk. Artistes: Maire Ni Chathasaigh & Chris Newman ++