The North East- part one

We had three shows this week, with two in the North East, The first was in Washington, at the North Biddick WMC.
We set off in good time as we were booked into a B&B in Middlesbrough and had to collect the keys. On arrival in Middlesbrough, I remarked on the number of Personal Injury Law Firms lining the street. Looking for someone to blame is big business here, which is sad as the town was built on iron and steel and heavy engineering. Later when we returned it was noticeable that the recession was biting deeply. All the pubs were shut and there was only one take-away open, when there were several last year.

But before all that we had a show to perform. We found the venue easily and loaded in via a circuitous trek around the rear of the building. At least there were no steps to negotiate. Although we weren't due to play until 8.30, people started coming into the room while we were setting up, so we weren't able to rehearse in private.

It was a strange show. 99% of the people loved it, but a couple of individuals made life unpleasant for Nicki. One even continued her rant the next day by email!

I have made a pledge not to enter into any discussions as to what constitutes country music with adults who insist on dressing up as cowboys.