AN Englishman: Michael McGoldrick, an Irishman: John Doyle and a Scotsman: John McCusker set off for a gig in the little town in County Durham.

“What’s the quickest way to Barnard Castle?” says McCusker. “Do you have a car?” answers Doyle. “No,” replies McGoldrick, “but I have some Uilleann pipes.” “Ah says McCusker, “You’ll be late then. The Uilleann pipes have seat belts and an air bag, but a car is quickest.”

A bad joke I just made that up to forgive a late start. Someone should have told them that there is no quick way to Barnard Castle when it snows. However, after a seven-hour battle with the white stuff, three of the best folk musicians I have ever had the pleasure of hearing and seeing began their session; I even bought a CD.

McGoldrick’s effortless command of the pipes catches the sound of a summer Irish breeze. McCusker’s electric fiddle, hand pumped harmonium and cittern capture the spirit of gypsy caravans and Doyle has a sea shanty to spare and a jig and a reel for good measure in each of his guitars.

All these guys are famous musicians, all are members of the BBC acclaimed Translantic Sessions. McGoldrick and McCusker toured last year with Mark Knopfler and Doyle was the musical director for Joan Baez, who he toured with for two years.

For one night their awesome blend of unforgettable folk belonged exclusively to just us at the end of a snowy road in Barnard Castle.

No other gigs from them in the area unless you want to include a snowy trip across the A66 to Kendal Brewery on Saturday.

Helen Brown