AFTER last week's feast of folk concerts, it is not surprising that there is little happening on the concert front, with most clubs finishing their programme in the run-up to the festive period. However, there are still a number of local singarounds and musicians' sessions taking place in the many hostelries throughout the area.

Details of many of these local events can be found in the North Staffordshire Folk Diary, which is a free quarterly broadsheet giving details of all the events going on in the area, the latest covering events from December to February.

Many thanks to Lorna and Wally Davies who correlate and produce this invaluable resource and who provide a regular update on extra events going on and changes in the published listings. It's worth getting on their mailing list, which is waldemar15@btinternet.com or by contacting them direct on 01538 360256.

No sooner is one North Staffs Folk Diary out, then Lorna and Wally are requesting information for the next one and organisers should note that the final deadline is January 31.

A change of venue has come to my attention which is worth noting.

John and Pauline Lovekin, who organise a great session, are moving back to the Gresley Arms, High Street, Alsagers Bank, from the Red Bull at Church Lawton.

This is every second Tuesday and was with effect from the December 14 (01782 562303). I'm sure everyone will wish them continued success as they return to their former venue.

Lorna Davies also informs me of a Christmas session tonight at The Lord Nelson at Oakamoor which should get people in the festive spirit. Everyone is welcome, performers and listeners alike, with seasonal dress optional (01538 360256).

Sandbach Folk Club, which runs on a weekly basis in The Market Tavern throughout the year, hosts a singers' night this Tuesday. Organiser Winston Baldwin tells me that they will shortly be celebrating their 30th birthday at the start of the year, which is a notable achievement for a weekly club. The club will continue to operate throughout the festive period with a number of singers' nights stretching into the New Year (07815721933).

A reminder to get your tickets early for the New Year's Eve barn dance at Brown Edge Village Hall, featuring the Moody Food Ceili Band with caller Sylvia Fisher. Tickets are strictly limited and last year's event was a sell-out. Further information 01782 536630.

It just leaves me to thank the organisers, local performers and most importantly all who attended the many folk concerts and sessions throughout the area and who have contributed to make the folk scene in North Staffordshire vibrant and successful throughout the year.

A special mention also to the coverage given by The Sentinel for the number of events it has featured and for its continual support for this column.

Best wishes for the festive period.