ahh fairport, i got into them a couple of years ago (december of 2009) a friend was given 2 tickets for the acoustic tour they were doing, Alnwick playhouse, we were front row centre, amazingly tight, a most enjoyable experience and then after the gig most of the band were out chatting to us, such a nice down to earth group of guys, all signed our programmes and chatted merrily about playing, giving tips and advice, we ended up on the stage chatting to the drummer while he was packing up, (we were led there by Peggy when he noticed we were missing a signature on the programmes, something like oh you're missing one, where is he, follow me we'll find him, next thing you know we're standing on stage surrounded by all the kit.)
i'd have to reccommend them to anyone even if you're not a folk fan, they are an inspiration and a great example of what music should be - FUN!
Oh and i think Peggy was playing 5 string Vintage that evening, sounded excellent.