While the rest of the country seems to be suffering a drought, good old Lochaber gets the rain, which is great if you are white-water kayaker, which I am not. However we have a secret weapon for non paddlers:- Julie Green and the Fired Art crew who work hard to keep us entertained indoors . Fired Art, which looks like just a cheerful café where you can also paint some pots (a great way of keeping kids entertained, by the way) is actually part of a thriving local music scene. On Saturday night Brian Houston came over from Ireland. Brought over on the instigation of complete muso Brian Sedgewick; whose day job is that of surgeon at the Belford, Lochaber's Hospital , and who has some slick moves in theatre, we are told.

If you get the chance to see Brian Houston live I'd really recommend it (try not to fall off any mountains and avoid seeing Brian Sedgewick - it'll ruin your hols). BH played two sets, and is funny as well as being tuneful. His music is a real mix, a bit Van Morrison , a bit folky, a bit bluesy. Fired Art only holds 60 so musicians can get a real rapport going with the audience; which BH probably regretted when we all started singing back at him, as he pointed out two octaves too high! A great night.

If you are coming up on holiday check out the Fired Art site www.fired-art.co.uk and if they are putting on any music make it a date for your diary. I've not been disappointed at any of their events yet.