AT the National Centre for English Cultural Tradition, University of Sheffield, we are currently working on a project assessing the continuity and change of traditional types of English between the years 1950-2000.

The language types under investigation are: proverbial usage; traditional sayings; rhymes and riddles; blason populaire (sayings, rhymes and nicknames about places, communities and groups); the language of children's traditional play and games.

Can readers help? We are conducting a nationwide survey in the form of individual questionnaires for each language type to provide us with up-to-date information on current usage.

We urgently require volunteers of all ages who would be willing to complete these questionnaires.

Those interested should send their contact details to me and I will be happy to send a copy of each questionnaire.

JOANNE GREEN

NATCECT

University of Sheffield

Sheffield S10 2TN