ONCE again folk music pours into the region in abundance this weekend, with two major events at the opposite ends of our territory, and a lot of very worthwhile club gigs to boot.

Gateshead's Sage runs the full gamut of the male singer-songwriting canon on Saturday night, with the latest folk hopeful Seth Lakeman as opening act for folk-punk Billy Bragg in the main hall, while in Hall Two, Ralph McTell, after four decades of touring and writing, will be doing the business as only he can.

Sunday at the Sage sees a rare local appearance for my favourite folk-rock combo, Oysterband, who were easily one of the best things I saw on last summer's festival circuit, with a style that transcends both its folk and rock origins. Meanwhile, in Whitby, the tenth Moor and Coast Festival kicks off on Friday, and brings back the guest-list from its first event of a decade ago in celebration.

Waterson/Carthy, Vin Garbutt, Last Night's Fun, Marie Little and myself are among a long list of acts that will be on hand over the three days to soak up that unique Whitby atmosphere.

Information is at www. moorandcoast. co. uk but be warned, tickets are selling out fast.

Special mention too for my own long-time hero Jim Sharp, who returns to the local scene for gigs at Skelton's Duke William tonight and Westoe Rugby Club on Sunday.

Richard Grainger is at Darlington Arts Centre tonight, the fabulous Rory McLeod is at Dipton's Cap-a-Pie tomorrow, and Steve Lane rounds out an amazing week for folk at Stockton's Sun Inn on Monday.