THE region's club scene kicks back into action this week, with the spotlight firmly on local performers, many of whom have national and international reputations among appreciative audiences way beyond our local boundaries.

As I've often said before, the North-East's musicians, folk songs and heritage are the envy of folk enthusiasts the world over, something I wish the local media would acknowledge occasionally, instead of brushing it under the carpet of dross they seem determined to serve up to an unsuspecting public.

Stepping down from my high horse, I can tell you that tonight, The Darlington Mummers will be bringing a touch of dramatic anarchy to Skelton's Duke William and at Blaydon's Tynefolk club, Dearman, Gamon and Harrison will be under the traditional spotlight.

The evergreen Vin Garbutt is at Kirkby Church Hall, near Stokesley tomorrow, and on Saturday, Washington's Davy Lamp starts a new season with awardwinning duo James Fagan and Nancy Kerr.

Realtime are at Westoe Club on Sunday, and on Monday the choice is between the fabulous Prelude at Heighington's Locomotion and Liz Law and Terry Conway at Stockton's Sun Inn. Adrian Burns is at Croxdale's Daleside Arms on Sunday, and don't forget that Rydale Folk Museum is presenting more fantastic local acts this weekend at their Folk On The Moor extravaganza, details are available by phoning 01287-660200. Finally, I'm at Jezfolk@aol. com, just waiting to hear from you with all the folky scam and scuttlebutt.