There’s plenty happening around the local folk scene this week, as usual, beginning tonight with some top-rated traditional songs from multi-instrumentalist Steve Turner at Gateshead’s Sage.

On Saturday, my Bad Pennies cohort Andy May, along with guitarist Ian Stephenson and the duo Landermason are at The Globe in Newcastle for an evening billed as “Jazz meets Folk”.

On Sunday, Paul Dalton is at South Shields Customs House, Guisborough Rugby Club has Loose Connection as headliners, and Gateshead’s Sage has a rare appearance by The Poozies, the multi-instrumental all-female band that includes Sally Barker, who recently made such a big impression on TV’s “The Voice” show, within their ranks.

On Monday Rod Clements is bill-topper at Dinnington Social Club for a night of goodtime blues, and on Tuesday The Daleside Arms at Croxdale has Hambones as their special guests.

Meanwhile I notice that the organisers of the Brecon Folk Club have moved their Monday night get-togethers to The Stapylton Arms in Hawthorn, near Seaham.

This venue that was a pivotal part of the local scene throughout the 1990’s, so it will be good to hear folk music roaring through the rafters down there once again.

Some advance notice about Christmas shows, if you’ll excuse my use of the dreaded word! My show at Gateshead’s Sage has sold out of regular seats, so restricted view seats and standing room has been made available.

Also, myself and Teeside songwriter Pete Davies have been asked to appear at Middlesbrough’s Normanby Hotel on December 22nd, previously advertised as Vin Garbutt’s annual appearance.

Vin won’t be able to appear this year, but the last I heard he’s feeling better and hopes to resume his live shows in the New Year. In the meantime, check out his new CD and place an order for tickets at his Normanby gig in December 2015.