We’ll be starting the evening off at 7.30 with our AGM, postponed from January because of the weather. We hope as many people who come along to Shammick Acoustic, even if only on an occasional basis, will attend to let us know what they want of the club. Do you like having occasional visiting performers at the Open Nights, or would you prefer the time to be completely fairly shared between those who happen to be there? Do you like the guests that we’ve booked? Do you want to see any of them again? Is there anyone else you’d like us to book? If you don’t tell us, we don’t know! We don’t intend to start the main business of the evening later than 8 p.m., so the AGM isn’t going to take long, but we would like your views.

Giving us a half-hour spot during the evening will be up-and-coming group The Kittiwakes. This trio from Essex play a multitude of instruments and sing as well. They’ve recently released their first album of original songs in traditional style based on the people, wildlife, landscape and folklore of the Lofoten Islands, the north western archipelago in arctic Norway. It appears that they have just been signed by a quite high-profile agent, so we’re really looking forward to hearing what they do.

In addition, as always, we look forward to a wide range of songs, music, poems and stories from the most important people at an Open Night – yourselves! If you’ve not been before, you’ll find that it’s all quite informal, friendly and welcoming. You will be encouraged to share your contribution with the assembled company, but in no way bullied to do so, and you will be just as welcome if you just want to listen and/or join in with chorus songs or music when appropriate. We send the pot round for financial contributions towards publicity and to subsidise our occasional skills workshops, and the price of a pint is encouraged.

(Alverdiscott Village Hall is at Stoney Cross, EX39 4PZ, on the road turning west from the village off the B3232 Barnstaple to Torrington road).

Contact John Blackburn for tickets and more information - telephone 01237 476632 email

This event is promoted by Beaford Arts BALTIC ROOTS, South West Rural Tour as part of the International Village of Culture .

As usual, there will be support spots from our wealth of local talent, and all this is available to you for as little as £5 for three hours of entertainment – less than £2 an hour! Fantastic value!