THE ROVING REPORTER INDEX

FOGGY FURZE FOLK CLUB has now had a name change and is now HARTLEPOOL FOLK CLUB, so thought I'd let you know in case you wondered why the Foggy Furze has vanished and a 'new' opened, it's one and the same :)

SALTBURN CONS CLUB OPEN MIC NIGHT 2024-04-26

It's been a while since my last visit, as Friday & Saturday nights are usually my crash & burn days after a hectic week out 'clubbing'. I spent Saturday processing films which takes hours to do. It also gave me time to add a few bits and bobs and change some bits and bobs on the website.

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As the nights are light for longer, I enjoyed the journey to this pretty seaside town, and managed to park the car after two circuits of the street, and lugged my red guitar up the stairs to a wonderful chilled out, friendly evening of wonderful music and humour.

Liz Bishop is a lovely lady and runs the nights with ease, and helped by the man who his worth his weight in gold, John Weighill.

I decided to do one of my own songs "Angels Don't Have Wings', the Roger Whittaker song 'The Last Farewell' and the brain strain of a head mess....

I introduce it as a song that Karen Carpenter SHOULD have recorded, but never did, then I sing it in the style of Karen Carpenter ( actually in my natural contralto pitch) then watch people googling or muttering "I'm sure that was Gerry & the Pacemekers ...

"Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying" is a song written by Gerry Marsden, Freddie Marsden, Les Chadwick and Les Maguire, the members of British beat group Gerry and the Pacemakers. It was was recorded by Gerry and The Pacemakers themselves in April 1964. The Gerry and The Pacemakers recording became an international hit, and remains one of their best known singles.

Other singers that recorded it were: Louise Cordet in 1964, Steve Lawrence in 1964 , José Feliciano in 1968 , Rickie Lee Jones in 1989, Gloria Estefan in 1994, Robben Ford in 1995 , Canadian boyband B4-4 in 2000, Paul Carrack in 2010 , Post Image with John Greaves in 2011, Nellie McKay in 2015 and Ronnie Spector in 2016

Not Karen Carpenter.

I loved the variety of music. 'That Damn Guitar' was fanatsic, I googled it, thinking I'd give it a go, only to find out that it was written by the lovely lady who sang it.

It was lovely to meet eveyone (in some cases, again) and of course, how wonderful to see David Walker giving it large.

If you have not been to this club, you really should.

Saltburn Conservative & Unionist Club, 1 Balmoral Terrace, Saltburn. TS12 1AS Upstairs in the Balmoral Room Last Friday of the Month. 7.30pm for 8pm Start, Free! Hosted by Liz Bishop & Friends.

STANLEY FOLK & ACOUSTIC CLUB 2024-04-25

Yes, it's now back to being on a Wednesday night!

It's held at The White Room, Station Road, Stanley DH9 0JL weekly on Wednesdays. Doors open at 7pm with music from local Singers & Musicians & a wine raffle. Drinks & bar snacks available. Admission is £3.00

SUNDERLAND FOLK CLUB 2024-04-25

Always a warm welcome to this club, and this was not a night to miss, the amazing John Wrigston Band.

I had not seen them in the new line up of John Wrigston, Graham Brotton & Kenny Jobson. Sadly, Joan was not able to be at this gig, and we all really missed her.

Peter and Pat of Pipe Dream opened the night with two songs. Then John Fisher did a wonderful set of 1920/30/40 songs. A truly wonderful night was enjoyed by all. It was also Angela Harland's first visit to this club, and it was great to see herself enjoying the musical splendour of the very talented artistes.

Thanks to John for the sound, Stasi who looks after the door and Ken Arkley who helps set the equipment up.

Blue Bell Pub, Fulwell Rd, Roker, Sunderland SR6 9AD. Upstairs. Last Thursday of the Month.

I went to enjoy the gig, and the films recorded are:

An All American Boy, Diary of a Northumberland Miner, Here Comes the Sun, Somewhere in America, Sunyn Afternoon, Those Days Have Gone for Good, Tin Soldier (a wee bit of feedback does not matter, as this was a superb perfomance of my very favourite JW song) & You Made it Right.

CANDLELITE LIVE MUSIC DL5 5AG 2024-04-24

What a treat! John Dickins & David Walker.

Song 1: Call It Stormy Monday But Tuesday Is Just As Bad original by T-Bone Walker

Song 2: Hound Dog original by Big Mama Thornton

As I do a lot of filming, I am rarely filmed, so a big thank you to John Twigger for this :)

CROXDALE FOLK & ACOUSTIC CLUB 2024-04-23

Tonight's singer of the month was the amazing Keith Morrison.

His sublime voice treated us to some well known popular songs, and indeed some of his lovely self-penned delights.

He was supported by floor singers Sammi, John Wrighston, Derek Reed, Chris & Bernadette Boyd and Steve.

RICHMOND ACOUSTIC SINGAROUND 2024-04-17

As it was the club's first night in it's new venue, The Turf Hotel, Victoria Road, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4DW POC ☎ Dave Barker 07785 308002, my pal Ian & I decided to head South to see everyone. Trouble is, as I was nattering away, and he was on auto pilot, we kept going South until he realised that Bedale meant that we had overshot. Hence our late and not very glamourous entrance.

I was gobsmacked by the size of the room, and indeed the sheer amout of happy shiny faces.

What a brilliant night we had .

It was a great night of music and chat with 25 people in the room and 21 of those performing.

There was some great music and I thought that the room worked out well for us.

The next session will be in two weeks time on Wed 1st May at 7-30pm and we hope for another great night then.

TOFT HOUSE - THE HOME OF UNPOPULAR MUSIC 2024-04-13

Wow! I am still in disbelief that I have actually trodden the floorboards of this poplar stage, in the footsteps of very well-known performers to do the sing thing.

All my own songs, apart from three covers, to give people the chance to sing along, and I was very humbled by, not only supporting Richard Grainger & Chris Parkinson, but the wonderful comments/feedback about my songs (and voice) really was lovely. I don’t hear myself as others do, and just think I am a normal singer.

My act as usual, had a bit of comedy in it, as I like to talk TO the audience, not AT them.

Thank you to Leigh for this wonderful opportunity, and the wonderful experience of performing in such a lovely venue.

If you have not yet been to the Toft House, you really should.

It is a very relaxed atmosphere, and the people there are super nice.

I look forward very much, to my next visit.

RICHMOND ACOUSTIC SINGAROUND 2024-04-04

RICHMOND FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) The Turf Hotel, Victoria Road, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4DW POC ☎ Dave Barker 07785 308002 Next door to the Georgian Theatre in Richmond. Access to our room is via the right hand front door rather than through the main bar area. There is plenty of parking in the market square which is free after 6pm. Please do not park in Lidl Car park as restrictions apply. (Wednesday)

A message from Dave Barker

" Hi Everyone, our sing-around last night at the Travellers Rest at Skeeby had to be held in the main bar/restaurant area as the usual upstairs room had been reserved for the darts team. This was far from ideal but we still had a good night. We spoke to the new tenant who made it clear that they will be turning the upstairs room into a restaurant area such that we will not be able to meet there in the future.

Having discussed options I can now confirm that we shall be moving to a private room with a bar in the Turf Hotel, Richmond from Wednesday 17th April. For those not familiar with this pub, it is next door to the Georgian Theatre in Richmond. Access to our room is via the right hand front door rather than through the main bar area. There is plenty of parking in the market square which is free after 6pm. Please do not park in Lidl Car park as restrictions apply.

We shall be starting as usual at 7-30pm and finishing about 10-30pm. I hope as many of you as possible can join us on 17th to make our new venue a great night and feel free to bring some friends along.

We look forward to seeing you then"

Cheers Dave Barker

CANDLELITE CLUB 2024-04-03

It was wondeful to be back at the Candlelight Club, especially so as two of the Folkie Family are poorly.

I was overjoyed to Joan back and David Walker still has what it takes for a bit of the Blues. As requested, Davd was filmed 'warts 'n' all, I'm glad as we would have missed the upside down harmonica!

TOFT HOUSE 2024-03-30

TOFT HOUSE, THE HOME OF UNPOPULAR MUSIC (7pm £8) Middlesbrough Little Theatre Club, The Avenue, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough TS5 6SA

My first visit to this lovely venue revealed a hidden gem.

As I am doing a featured act for each month of 2024, this month's act was doing a gig so I was inveted to go along and film. It was lovely to meet Roddy & Jane who plays the bass like I have never seen before, and acts as the band's 'drum machine'

The venue feels a bit like the White Room in Stanley, a nice cafe bar, relaxed environment. Leigh Sayers is the lovely host for the night.

The night started off with 'Mean Street', "We play a mix of original, classic and rock blues guaranteed to get your foot tapping "

Based in Teeside, if you want to book them, please email them.

Denis Firman

Lead Guitar

Phil Muriel

Drums, Lead Vocals & Harmonica

Nick Noble

Bass & Backing Vocals

The main act of the night was the Roddy Gordon Band, who are Folk- Rock - Blues-Celtic, with a great mixture of self penned and popular Folk songs.

Their 'Featured Act April 2024' page will be published soon.

Jane Gordon

Bass, backing vocals, sing writer & Percussion

Roddy Gordon

Lead vocals, slide/lead guitar & harp.

Guest Player Ronnie Brown

Guest Harp Player

CANDLELITE CLUB 2024-03-06

CANDLELIGHT CLUB (7.15pm) Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club, Moore Lane, Newton Aycliffe DL5 5AG (Every Wednesday) ♿ 🎸

Having tee'd it up with both JW's a couple of weeks before, due to size of the band, we were treated with a variety of musical delights!

The feedback was wonderful from people who were surprised by this wonderful band.

The beauty of this club is that everyone is welcomed, regulars or not.

I didn't manage to film everybody, but what a lovely club, ran smoothly by John Weighill (worth his weight in gold) & the amazing sound done by John Wrightson (Folk Club Royalty)

RICHMOND ACOUSTIC SINGAROUND 2024-02-27

2024-03-06

RICHMOND FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) The Travellers Rest, 22 Richmond Rd, Skeeby, Richmond DL10 5DS *ACOUSTIC SINGAROUND* POC Dave davebarker_egp@hotmail.co.uk (1st & 3rd Wednesdays)

From Dave

Hi Everyone, we had another lovely night at Skeeby last night and it was great to see Bob and Margaret Frazer there for the first time.

The new tenants are now in situ and still sorting things out but they seem keen for us to continue our first and third Wednesday sessions.

Next date for the diary is Wed 20th March at 7-30pm.

I look forward to seeing you then!

ACKLAM OPEN MIC 2024-02-27

ACKLAM OPEN MIC (7pm) Rugby & Cricket Club, Acklam Park, Green Lane, Middlesbrough TS5 7SL *OPEN MIC* Contact ian_swinburne@hotmail.com to check (Last Tuesday)

As Tuesdays are always a very busy night - so many clubs on, Acklam was tonight's choice.

It was very busy and a lovely eclectic choice of songs from the performers. I did my 'Hensol Lake' & ' Don't Let the Sun catch You Crying'.

Ian did so well - multi-tasking, doing sound AND vision.

I also have to say that John Weighill is worth his weight in gold, as I have seen him at several clubs, helping out, being the MC , he may be terrifying behind the microphone, but offstage, he is such a lovely quiet spoken gentleman and works very hard to help keep nights running smoothly. Not such an unsung hero, but a hero nevertheless.

This is a super club, very supportive, and appreciative audience and is starting to attract younger singers in too.

The Great Rock God that is the legend Trever Bond seems to have taken him under his rather long wingspan and given the wee lad some helpful advice.

I look forward to seeing the leg movement , as displayed by Trevor....

The Club is wheelchair accessible too.

Why not give it a go!

BUTTERKNOWLE OPEN MIC 2024-02-25

2024-02-25

BUTTERKNOWLE FOLK CLUB (6.30pm) Pinfold Lane Butterknowle Bishop Auckland DL13 5PX *SINGAROUND* (Last Sunday)

It has been quite a while since I had first gone to this club, so I was a tad surprised when they remembered me!

There is no charge for this, but please buy some raffle tickets, it pays for the rent of this splendid Village Hall. As it was, I ended up with a nice, scented candle.

Lots of amazing talent here tonight, and a very appreciative audience. I will never forget Jim Blenkhorn’s amazing lightshow whist sings Elton John’s ‘Sacrifice’ – like the pro he is, he just carried on regardless.

We were all allocated three songs each, which is great, so I did ‘Jolene’, my new song ‘Someone Like Me’ & ‘Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Crying’ in the style of Karen Carpenter (AKA my real voice range).

The Blues Brothers duo was new to me, brilliant!

It was lovely to the wonderful people who have become friends get up and do their stuff, Ian & Trevor (the Rock God) were up to their usually high jinks and splendid songs, and the finale was provided by the Great John Weighill.

The roads are ok until you get past West Auckland, then roads go “ARRGGGH WOO HOO” It was dark, new car syndrome ‘r’ us! Well worth the drive, last Sunday of the month 6.30pm, be there or be positively rectangular!

THE RED LION, BIRLTEY 2024-02-24

2024-02-24

BUSKER'S NIGHT (8pm) The Red Lion Durham Rd, Birtley, Chester-le-Street DH3 1LS *PLUG 'N' PLAY* ☎ 0191 660 1781 Take own instrument & microphone. (1st Sunday)

The New Red Lion - Birtley:

Good morning,

It's with a heavy heart and a lot of soul searching. I have to make this post.

Yesterday, I gave my notice to the brewery, I wanted to tell you all before the To Let boards go up. I don't know the timescale but will know a bit more after my meeting on Monday. I know some people know what I've been going through the last few months with certain trust issues

I'm proud of what I've achieved over the last year and wanted to keep building, but sometimes you can't manage that. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me and enjoyed some good nights here. I will keep everyone updated.

Again, thanks to everyone.

QUALMS 2024-02-16

2024-02-16

QUALMS (8pm) Quaking Houses Village Hall, Second St, Stanley DH9 7HQ *ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC* House PA, 2 Acoustics, Cajon for drummers, Tambourine available to use or bring your own. Bass and Keyboards welcome too. This is a family friendly venue. Hosted by Daniel Graham, who is the son of Benny Graham (Jez Lowe's 'Bad Pennies') Venue POC 01207 283016 qhvhad@gmail.com

What to do on free Friday night? Go and play music with some strangers sounded fine, and going to a place never been to before, in the dark! The name Quaking Houses sounded exotic enough to me, so I packed the ghost guitar and felt my ears popping as I headed towards the hills.

I parked up and entered what looking like a wedding reception - a massive room, beautifully lit.

Lovely to meet Dan, who regaled us with some great popular tunes. Then Brian Rowe (previously met at the White Room, Stanley) he was fascinated by my guitar and other related gadgets... he also gave it large - belting out some massive songs, what's not to like about about of rock music! Superb!

I sang until my fingers got sore, and the lovely friendly audience were singing along to all of us players, and people took turn to give the cajon a bang too.

This was the 2nd night of this club, and to be honest, I really enjoyed it.

It would be nice to see more bums on seats and more players, as Dan brought a great set up to plug and play with. There is a bar and what appears to be a 'Tuck Shop'. And it's free.

GREY HORSE SINGER SONGWRITER UNPLUGGED 2024-02-06

2024-02-06

GREY HORSE SINGER SONGWRITER UNPLUGGED (8pm) The Grey Horse 115 Sherburn Terrace, Consett DH8 6NE *SINGERS NIGHT* POC 01274 861530 Hosted by Jonny Boyle (Every Tuesday)

As a singer/songwriter with a rare spare Tuesday night, I virtually span the bottle and the Grey Horse was tonight's choice of a (new for me) club.

Firstly, The Grey Horse is a beautiful what I call a 'proper' pub, old fashioned (in fact, it's an Ale Works) with historical stuff hanging from the ceiling and a rather satanic animal on the wall. I knew then that this was going to be a great night! Oh, and they do great meals and other entertainment evenings.

The Landlord & Landlady are down to earth and lovely with a great sense of humour. The Windmill conversation will stay with me for a while….

Run by the great Jonny Boyle, this was more of a very friendly gathering of lovely people with many random conversations in between every song. I felt so welcomed and as if I had known these people for years. Certainly my type of humour! It was nice that they gentle with me until they soon released that I have a dark and often quirky sense of humour. Me rattling the shuggly egg and Rico jiggling the tambourine along to the mucky song was hilarious.

I have been saying that all Folk Clubs/Open Mikes et al are really, in fact, social evenings with likeminded people.

In an insular world, being pack animals that we really are, reaching for human interaction is difficult to find for this quirky introvert, but I have finally found where to find likeminded souls. Thank goodness!

Another bonus! Bags of sweets appeared, nothing cuter than grown men eating sweeties as it they were wee boys.

I cannot recommend this lovely acoustic evening enough, and it may be a long but fairly straight road to the mountain of County Durham (a good 2 degrees colder), but the warmth of this gorgeous pub and the people within make the journey more than worthwhile. I am looking forward to going back. Thank you, you beautiful people for one of the best nights ever!

TOM BLISS 2024-01-31

2024-01-31

TOM BLISS OLD WEBSITE

Tom has come out of retirement for a very good reason. He is raising fund for MS Research and can be seen at these venues. if you can't attrend the gigs, you can donate to MS Research by licking the link on the highloighted text.

February 22nd (Thursday)

TOPIC FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) Groove Pad, 48 Saltaire Road, Shipley BD18 3HN. Tom Bliss with Den Miller (Mainly Tom’s best known songs and tunes - all for MS Research)

February 27th (Tuesday)

RYBURN 3 STEP FOLK CLUB (8.00) Hollins Mill, 12 Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge HX6 2QG Tom Bliss with Den Miller (Mainly Tom’s best known songs and tunes - all for MS Research)

February 29th (Thursday)

CROOKES FOLK CLUB (8.15m) The Princess Royal, 43 Slinn St, Sheffield S10 1NW Tom Bliss with Den Miller (Mainly Tom’s best known songs and tunes - all for MS Research)

April 25th (Thursday)

DARLINGTON FOLK CLUB (8.00pm) The Copper Beech pub, Neasham Rd, Darlington DL1 4DH. Tom Bliss with Ross Bennett (Tom’s best known songs and tunes - all for MS Research)

MARIE LITTLE - SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB 2024-01-28

2024-01-28

SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB (7.15pm) Indoor Bowls Club, Horsley Hill Rd South Shields NE33 3HE *MARIE LITTLE* (Every Sunday) ♿

WoW! Marie Little was amazing, and the passion in her voice whilst singing is superb as is her warm personality and charming wit. A brilliant night!

And, on a side note, John Dolan is certainly getting to grips with his uke, and we enjoyed both songs, well done that man.

CUTTY WREN FOLK CLUB 2024-01-27

2024-01-27

CUTTY WREN FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) Redcar Bowling Club, 1 Thwaites Lane, Redcar TS10 2FD *SINGERS & MUSICIANS/GUESTS* Please check HERE to see what's on. (Every Tuesday)🎻

Here is The Cutty Wren Newsletter Spring 2024

C W Newsletter Spring 2024.pdf

RIPON WILFRED'S FOLK CLUB 2024-01-27

2024-01-26

RIPON WILFRID’S FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) St Wilfrid’s Community Centre, Trinity Lane, Ripon, HG4 2AB *ACOUSTIC SINGAROUND* Come and meet other acoustic musicians and songwriters and make or listen to music! Come and join us. We’d love to see you! Contact sailortish@hotmail.com (Every 2nd Friday - No club in August)

Such a great night of LIVE music last Friday night with our Guest Janglebuddies! Firstly our talented and diversely musical local floor performers entertained us. The night was completed with the performance of Phil Cockerham and Dickie Dickson, Janglebuddies, which was polished, energetic and showed both of their musical prowess. Thank you all our performers, audience and last but not least, our brilliant sound man, Brian Bewsey.

CANDLELITE CLUB 2024-01-03

2024-01-03

CANDLELIGHT CLUB (7.15pm) Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club, Moore Lane, Newton Aycliffe DL5 5AG (Every Wednesday) ♿ 🎸

I was so looking forward to going back to this club and was not disappointed!

As I had decided to feature Featured Acts 2024!, tonight’s ‘pinup’ was the amazing Kim Ralls, who had travelled over an hour to support this club.

February’s ‘pinup’ Eric Sharp turned up too, so you will have to wait until February to see his lovely songs.

John Weighill makes a superb MC, his gentle humour and kindness shines through, that and his belting performance as a brilliant singer/songwriter. Legend.

The videos below will show you what a great club this is. And why the Candlelight is my club of choice to be featured in Featured Acts 2024!

SHERBURN VILLAGE CLUB LOUNGE 2024-01-02

2024-01-02

SHERBURN VILLAGE CLUB LOUNGE (7pm) 60 Front St, Sherburn Village DH6 1HB. (1st & 3rd Tuesday) 🎙️🎸

So glad to be back in the swing of things after the 'Festive Season' put my social life on hold.

A very chilled acoustic night, if you have not yet been to this club, you really should, as it has become one of my 'go to' places every other Tuesaday.

Such warm, friendly people, and gentle humour, not to mention the amazing musicians and a great variety of 'anything goes' songs.

SALTBURN FOLK CLUB 2024-12-21

2023-12- 21

From the 8th January 2014, SALTBURN FOLK CLUB will be now held at the new times of 7pm-10pm at a NEW venue:

The Marine, Marine Parade, Saltburn, TS12 1DZ

DUN COW ACOUSTIC CLUB 2024-12-18

2023-12-18

DUN COW FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) The Dun Cow, Bournmoor, Houghton le Spring DH4 1DY 🎶🎉🎄CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH THE JOHN WRIGHTSON BAND 🎄🎉🎶 (Last of the year)

What a top night! This is such a wonderful club, and the John Wrighton band was on top form, with tonight's line up , joining John Wrightson, Joan Edmundson & kenny Jobson was the mamazing bass player, Graham Brotton .

Sadly, Kenny has now left the band, so you will see him soon playing with Bert Louissen .

This club has been a regular for me and will continue to be so.

Such a brilliant atmosphere! I can't wait for the 8th January to arrive so I can go back!

I was very honoured to be one of the 'floor singers'.

Tin Soldier

Written by John Wrightson

You Made it Right

Written by Elizabeth Anderson & John Dillon

Here Comes the Sun

Written by George Harrison

Bye Bye Love

Written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant

Sunny Afternoon

Written by Ray Davies

Rock 'n' Roll Music

Written by Chuck Berry

Diary of a Northumberland Miner

Written by John Wrightson

Meet Me on the Corner

Written by Rod Clemants

The Way Things Were Done Those Days

Written by John Wrightson

THE GROVE CLUB 2024-12-02

2023-12-02

THE GROVE CLUB (8pm) The Grove Folk Club, Grove Inn, Back Row, Leeds LS11 5PL *SINGER, MUSICIANS & SPOKEN WORD*

Due to the arson attack at the Grove Inn meaning it is closed for repairs, the Grove Folk Club will be temporarily moving to the New Headingley Club on Monday nights for a while. (There is a car park and it is very close to bus routes up Otley Road) We will be singing there from 8pm – 10:30pm on Monday 27th November, and then on every Monday until Christmas. We take a break of 2 weeks for Christmas and New Year and will keep you updated about the weeks after. We hope to have a fundraiser to help the Grove get back up and running at some point. Please carry on supporting us and the Grove and hope to see you soon.

https://newheadingleyclub.co.uk/site/

TUNSTALL VILLAGE HALL 2023-11-29

2023-11-29

TUNSTALL VILLAGE HALL (7.30pm £2 BYOB) Tunstall Village Hall, North Yorkshire, DL10 7QR ACOUSTIC MUSIC SESSION* POC 01748 811288 guitarcat50@gmail.com (Last Wednesday)

The 2nd night in North Yorskshire for me. Paul runs a very chilled out evening, and literally, anything goes! Having remembered to bring my own drinks, I was set and good to go! A rich variety of songs & music, I performed 'Angel's Don't Have Wings' for the very first time in public, and at request 'The Power of a Touch'

It was also lovely to see faces from the night before, and able to meet others in person for the first time. There will be a festival held here on September 7th 2024. Avery enjoyable evening.

BEDALE ACOUSTIC MUSIC CLUB 2023-11-28

2023-11-28

BEDALE ACOUSTIC MUSIC CLUB (7.15pm) The White Bear Hotel, 1 South End Bedale DL8 2BJ *ACOUSTIC SESSSION* All types of music welcome. Contact John Knight via john-knighton@hotmail.co.uk (2nd and 4th Tuesdays)

I had no plans to go out, but a message from Ian offering a lift (as it's beyond my 30 mile range), I jumped at the chance to have a long overdue revisit to this superb club. Noddy Holder would have screamed "Not yet!", but the white feather Christmas tree was well impressive! It's a lovely pub, free on street parking, what's not to like?

Doing one song at a time, we all managed to do four songs each which was very pleasing, and we all enjoyed a rich variety of music, and lots of wonderful laughter and camaraderie.

It was also great to see that this website works, as two lovely people from Darlington turned up, and we were treated to a James Taylor song and a self penned song.

The big sqeezebox was being played with gusto, and the quote of the night for me was

"It's like being sat next to the mighty Wurlitzer!"

This a such a welcoming club, set in beautful Bedale, which is a quintessential North Yorkshire market town.

The guitar chord of the night was "The most popular Yorkshire chord of 'A' up!"

I cannot recommend this lovely club enough. it is also dog friendly.

Until you have enjoyed the warmth of the wonderful North Yorkshire humour, you have not lived!

You really should go!

SHERBURN VILLAGE CLUB LOUNGE 2023-11-21

2023-11-21

SHERBURN VILLAGE CLUB LOUNGE (7pm) 60 Front St, Sherburn Village DH6 1HB *SINGAROUND* POC 0191 3720274. Leave your egos at the door, come in, grab a drink and enjoy some laughs and music! All welcome, no cover charge, no pints for singers, no Bingo, no raffles no bagpipes... Please bring music sheets for the band if you can.(1st & 3rd Tuesday)

Love, love , love this club!

Some clubs I go to once, some I leave halfway through (that's another story!)

This one, however, was recommended to me by the amazing musician John Dickens, so I have just had my 2nd visit as this club and will be making it a regular haunt. The band are awesome and Jim Tait is a super host. Much laughter, music and a very welcoming group of lovely people.

BARNSLEY FOLK CLUB 2023-11-20

2023-11-20

BARNSLEY FOLK CLUB (8pm) The Spiral City Pub 26-30 The Arcade, Barnsley S70 2QN *FOLK SONG, DANCE & MUSIC* POC Venue 01226 283013 spiralcitybar@gmail.com (1st & 3rd Wednesday) 🎻

Barnsley folk club was held for years at The Trades and the move to Spiral City, 26-30 The Arcade

Barnsley S70 2QN was recent. December dates will be 6th and 20th (tbc) as close to Christmas

The forst dates of 2024 will be Jan 3rd and 17th, Feb will be 7th and 21st that is 2 meetings each month throughout the year on 1st and 3rd Wednesday. Dates are per the calendar and no extras in the month unless notified, probably at short notice.

Ray Padgett

STANLEY FOLK & ACOUSTIC CLUB 2023-11-09

2023-11-09

STANLEY FOLK & ACOUSTIC (7pm £3) 15 Station Road, Stanley DH9 0JL *SINGAROUND* Plug & Play. Hosted by Andy Hogg. POC ricster392@gmail.com (Every Thursday)

I finally found time to try out the newly refurbished White Room.

Best to park here 54.872392601889814, -1.6973820600944072 just off Royal road,(next to Stanely Carpet centre) and popping across the zebra crossing, as the White Room is opposite the car park.

The place looks amazing after it’s refurb, so, after crossing Andy Hogg's palm with three gold coins, I popped my guitar case with all the rest and was pleased to see friendly faces. So, I sat with John & Toni Dickens.

The atmosphere was very relaxed and lots of fanatic musicians and laughter. Again, it was like sitting in someone’s home with friends, and having a lovely relaxed evening. The fact that I used music (like most orchestras) did not matter one bit.

It was also lovely to meet the new owner, Graeme Richardson.

I must say, I can see this place becoming one of my regular haunts, as I felt welcome and very comfortable there.

If you have not tried this club, you really should!

DARLINGTON FOLK WORKSHOP CLUB 2023-11-09

2023-11-09

DARLINGTON FOLK WORKSHOP (8pm) The Travellers Rest, West Auckland Road, Darlington DL3 9ER *SINGAROUND/GUESTS* Please see HERE to see what's on or email davidwalker55@googlemail.com (Every Tuesday)

"In October 2024 the Workshop will be 60 years old. We are planning a special Grand Singaround on Saturday October 12th 2024"

DUN COW ACOUSTIC CLUB 2023-11-08

2023-11-08

DUN COW FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) The Dun Cow, Bournmoor, Houghton le Spring DH4 1DY *SINGAROUND* 🐶

The decision has been made to reinstate the original (pre-covid) constitution of the club. The zoom night is being moved to every other Thursday to accommodate the fact that from 21st December 2023, Wendy Parker will be the MC, every Monday.

The zoom nights are now alternate weeks from 21st December, irrespective of where that lies in the month. The club created has created a whole musical international family via Zoom, who are also very important to Dun Cow, so these changes reflect that also.

These dates are reflected on the 'Diary of Events'page. This enables people, especially Wendy, to attend the 'Live' nights'. If Wendy is unavailable, when either Brian Evans or Brian race will step in.

BIRTLEY ACOUSTIC CLUB 2023-11-07

2023-11-07

BIRTLEY ACOUSTIC CLUB (7pm) The Red Lion Durham Rd, Birtley, Chester-le-Street DH3 1LS *ACOUSTIC NIGHT*

The decision has been made to close this club due to lack of support. A real shame.

CANDLELITE CLUB 2023-10-11

2023-10-11

CANDLELIGHT CLUB (Newton Aycliffe IS CLOSED ON WEDNESDAY 8th NOVEMBER DUE TO VENUE BEING CLOSED - SOMETHING TO DO WITH NEW PIPES BEING FITTED... DON'T GO AS YOU WILL BE DISAPPOINTED.

BARRASFORD FOLK CLUB 2023-10-04

2023-10-04

BARRASFORD FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) Barrasford Village Hall, 37 East Acres, Barrasford, Hexham NE48 4AJ *MIXED SESSION* Bar available. Contact Mike Tickell on : 01434 230049 or via email on m.tickell@btinternet.com

*Barrasford Hotel has closed so this a new venue*

BIRTLEY ACOUSTIC CLUB 2023-10-03

2023-10-03

BIRTLEY ACOUSTIC CLUB (7pm) The Red Lion Durham Rd, Birtley, Chester-le-Street DH3 1LS *ACOUSTIC NIGHT* Tel 0191 660 1781 1st & 3rd Tues nights. Acoustic only - superb room acoustics. All styles welcome. 🐶

FOLK OPEN MIC 2023-09-19

2023-09-19

FOLK OPEN MIC (7.30pm) The Avenue, Avenue Street, High Shincliffe, DH1 2PT *PLUG & PLAY*

Sadly this is the last night for while as the pub is changing hands. We will update as soon as we know of the new Innkeeps are happy for this lovey, friendly club to continue. It was a super lovely night, very freindly and relaxed. Fingers crossed it carries on.

DUN COW ACOUSTIC CLUB 2023-09-08

2023-09-18

DUN COW FOLK CLUB (7.30pm) The Dun Cow, Bournmoor, Houghton le Spring DH4 1DY

Having a bit of a wobbly week, I decided to goto a lovely club full of wonderful friends. As John Wrighson has been a bit off colour, it was the best ever surprise to see John & Joan here tonight. I decided to try a wee sing a long, and sing a long they did!

Wendy had been to America and was full of beans to say the least! Much laughter and the loving atmoshere was what everyine needs! if you have not visited this club yet, you really should! Brian's quirky recording shows what a great crowd is there.

Kenny Jobson had the longest wait of all, and was brilliant as always with a singalong, Lazing on a Sunny Afternoon !

The Dun Cow acoustic club Sammi.mp4

SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB 2023-09-17

2023-09-17

SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB (7.15pm) Indoor Bowls & Social Club, Horsley Hill Rd, South Shields NE33 3HE.

The carpet underfoot in the ladies loos may have been mildly moist - but what a great turnout and a fab night! Ken was on form as always. Such a relief to have the club open after the rain stopped play last week. The act with the biggest round of applause and cheering was the Legend that is John Dolan - because he didn't bring his uke! This is the belly laugh of clubs - great banter and wonderful people. You really should goto this club, for me, it's certainly worth the 56 mile round trip!

SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB 2023-09-16

2023-09-16

SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB (7.15pm) Indoor Bowls & Social Club, Horsley Hill Rd, South Shields NE33 3HE.

The Bowls Club have advised us that most of last week's problems have been resolved so the folk club will be on tomorrow night as usual. The good news is that it's a singers night so a great chance to dust off your favourite songs and tunes and come along and play, the bad news is the card reader in the bar is still not working so it's cash only I'm afraid.

THE WHITE ROOM MUSIC CAFE 2023-09-15

2023-09-15

THE WHITE ROOM MUSIC CAFÉ (12pm) 15 Station Road, Stanley DH9 0JL

This lovely venue has changed hands, and is in the midst of being refurbished. It will re open on October 14th 2023 with with the *Northern Roots Band*

NEW FOLK ROUNDABOUT TEAM MEMBER 2023-09-14

2023-09-14

NEW FOLK ROUNDABOUT TEAM MEMBER

I had received an email from Keith Duncombe. We had a meeting to bounce some ideas, and he is now the Assistant Editor - great to have you on board!

SOUTH SHEILDS FOLK CLUB 2023-09-10

2023-09-10

SOUTH SHIELDS FOLK CLUB (7.15pm) Indoor Bowls & Social Club, Horsley Hill Rd, South Shields NE33 3HE.

Due to the flooding on Sunday, Ken & Brian didn't know about the chaos the flood had caused until after they started setting up. They had recieved loads of apologies for absence and with the rain and total chaos from GNR traffic. I await futher news and will update.