With a love of his Teesside birthplace and the people who dwell and work there, Richard has salted his repertoire of songs of the land and sea sung with commitment. Much of his self-penned material is now sung up and down this country often passed off as traditional, but sounding so much better sung by man himself. He also has a passion for traditional songs and ballads and this is all held together by his unique guitar accompaniments. Be ready to sing.

We welcome back Tom McConville, this wonderful fiddle player and vocalist from Tyneside, who brings a wealth of talent and experience to share with us tonight. Tom is well respected by the many people he has worked with, but I think his magic comes to the fore in front of a live audience as the tunes flow, sometimes at breakneck speed other times in a halting but beautiful slow air all interspersed with a dry wit. The songs and tunes range from his beloved North East to Ireland, USA and beyond. There will be plenty of opportunities to join in the choruses.

Dick has had to cancel the booking due to new certification suddenly imposed by the Irish government that he could not provide in time for his flight today.

This week will be a Singers' Night.

We are delighted that he has agreed to be our first guest of the new season. Pete performs both locally and internationally. He has many strings to his bow being a soloist but also playing with his own ceilidh band. Those of you who are festival goers know him in his guise as a seller and repairer of all things musical whilst passing on sound and helpful advice. Expect superb melodeon playing along with a wonderful collection of songs and tunes.