THERE are a number of top-class concerts on this week with four local folk clubs in action.

Starting tonight, Mike Ryan and Paul Downes play at The Potteries Folk Club which meets at Foxfield Railway Station, in Caverswall Road, Blythe Bridge.

Mike Ryan has a reputation as having one of the best traditional voices around while Paul Downes is an outstanding guitarist, so expect some great chorus songs with lots of audience participation at a club which is renowned for having some of the best floor-singers in the area, as well as some dazzling guitar accompaniments by an accomplished performer.

The evening has an 8pm for an 8.30pm start (for further details call 01782 81340).

On Tuesday, Sandbach Folk Club, which is at The Market Tavern, has Graham Cooper as its guest. Graham is an excellent contemporary singer/songwriter who now lives in Portugal and tours once or twice a year.

He earned a good reputation in the 1970s and 1980s through his association with Harvey Andrews, the pair working as a duo for several years. Please note this club has a slightly later start of 8.45pm. It is best to get there early as space is limited (07815 721933).

On Wednesday, Biddulph Up In Arms has leading contemporary singer/songwriter Martyn Joseph appearing at The Biddulph Arms. However, the concert is already a sell-out, although it is always worth phoning to see if there are any last-minute cancellations (01782 514896).

Thursday night sees the legendary Ashley Hutchings performing alongside Ken Nicol, pictured above, at The Cuckoo's Nest, at The Swan in Leek.

Ashley was the founder member of Fairport Convention, then he went on to form Steeleye Span and then The Albion Band. He is teaming up with Ken Nicol, a fabulous guitarist who now plays with Steeleye, in a show entitled Copper, Russet And Gold.

This offering comprises all original compositions that delve into the pairings' rich musical history. The expected folk feel is certainly there, but also mixed with splashes of jazz, blues and rock. (01538 385260).

The folk component of the Leek Arts Festival in May has been finalised with some fabulous events in store; Johnny Coppin & Mike Silver (May 6), John Tams & Barry Coope (May 13), Family Mahone (May 14), Leek Folk Day (May 15), Fairport Convention (May 20) and Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble (May 25). It is best to get your tickets early. (01538 385260).

Finally, tickets are available for Scottish traditional legends Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham who appear in concert at Biddulph Town Hall on Wednesday, March 24 (01782 514896).