Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99

Subject: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 08:30 AM

Since other areas have generated much joy from such threads I thought we might see how much joy we can generate around here.

Like many people around here I am a Manc by adoption - migrant labour so to speak - not by birth.

I think the first Folk Club I attended was in Ashton on a Sunday night and it was run by Keith and Maggie, as was, Glazzard. That was around 71-2. But lots and lots of clubs had been going for donkeys's before that.

I went to the Millstone on, I think Thomas Street, to the Song Carriers around '73. We arrived here in '78 and promptly discovered Harry and Lesley Boardman's Club in Town and Gorton Morrismen. I joined Gorton and then things seem to get hungover and confused.

How many people who attended, sang at or ran clubs in the last 40 or 50 years are still doing so today?

L in C

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Ian Hendrie
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 09:55 AM

Previous posting generated an error message so I'll try again:

I have pleasurable memories of seeing many of the folk 'greats' of the seventies, Planxty, McCalmans, Yetties, Blackpool Taverners, Jake Thackeray, Mike Harding, etc. at the Golden Lion in Withington, the Deanwater in Woodford and Poynton Folk Centre. These places were packed out so it was necessary to turn up and queue half an hour or so before opening time to get a good seat! How things have changed.

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Good Soldier Schweik
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 12:36 PM

I played regularly at ring of bells middleton and star inn salford and once or twice possibly at unicorn folk club,plus swinton folk club.

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Good Soldier Schweik
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 12:37 PM

oh and ashton under lyne folk club.

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: John J
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 12:55 PM

Sale Folk Club at the (old) Railway, The Malt Shovels in Altrincham - excellent clubs - as was the Ring O'Bells in Middleton (already mentioned)run by Eric, Maggie and her hubby - whose name I've forgotten.

JJ

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 01:01 PM

I remember I club at a golf club in Altrincham - which one would that be?

L in C

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Good Soldier Schweik
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 01:05 PM

I remember eric he used to play Anglo, it was ken and mags whiting.

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 01:32 PM

Who remembers Sunday nights at the Sir Colin Campbell in Oldham run by the Oldham Tinkers.We were on the doorstep before they opened at 7 to ensure we got a seat.Must have been 1967/68 as we were all under age at the time.heard lots of great music that set me up for life

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: John J
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 02:31 PM

I don't know of a club at Altrincham Golf Club - I'll ask around.

Anyone remember the REAL Bury Folk Club, Saturday nights at the Old Blue Bell? There was a tie up with the Ring O'Bells in Middleton - you only had to be a member of one to have members status at both.

JJ

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 02:55 PM

Hi

There have been several folk clubs in and around Altrincham, but I don't remember any at the Golf Club itself. There has been regular music sessions at The Old Hall Hotel which was right in the driveway to the golf club. But I don't remember any folk music there.

Some I do remember are The Wellgreen in Hale - Pete Wilmott and Cheshire Folk.

The Malt Shovels - they had other music clubs as well - my Uncle and Aunt were landlords there many years ago.

The Garrick in Altrincham ran for several years.

Kersal Rugby Club in Altrincham and then in Timperley......Pete Wilmott - Tony & Arthur

Linotype Folk Club in Broadheath.

There was one in a club on George Street right opposite the Bricklayers Arms....don't know who ran it

I too remember Sale Folk Club.....oh I did go to a couple of folk nights at Sale Golf club....don't think it was a regular club though.

Anyone remember any others ??

cheers

Mike

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 03:13 PM

hi

I forgot to mention the one at the Ashley Hotel in Hale.

Played there one night when the England cricket team were staying there. They were playing a test match at Old Trafford.

There were a number of the Test side in the audience and me and my mate were invited to join the England party upstairs at "throwing out time".

Don't really remember too much of what happened later !!!!!

I missed out the pubs and clubs on the other side of Altrincham that have run folk clubs over the yeras.

The Saracens head at Warburton. Most of the pubs in Lymm from time to time.

The Swan With Two Nicks - The Olde No 3.....I started my "career" there. The Kilton Inn.....that's going back some years !!!!

Memories.......

Mike

Subject: RE: Folklore: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 23 Jan 10 - 07:11 PM

Some I do remember are The Wellgreen in Hale - Pete Wilmott and Cheshire Folk. So do I - I remember doing a gig there in the late 1960s.
Timperley.- Tony & Arthur - I thought they ran a club in Poynton, Cheshire? Is either of them still going?

Of course I remember the Unicorn - I was a resident there when Harry & Lesley Boardman ran it with Joe Kerrins, Mark Dowding, Nick Dennerley etc for many's the long year. I remember Tom Paley turning up there as the booked guest one night and instead of singing songs & playing his wonderful banjo he played Swedish fiddle. Not what we expected.
I also remember Peggy Seeger's gig - she was there to collect Ewan's postumous award from Salford University. Also Ian Rosselson, whose daughter had graduated from Manchester Uni and he did a gig at the club because he was in the city.
But I also remember an fantastic traditional song club near/in Stevenson's Square where Terry Whelan , Dave Hillary and many others of legendary fame sang. What was it called? I had the idea that it was called the Loving Ballad ( after Lord Bateman)...does anyone else remember it?
Mary

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 05:06 AM

Hi Mary, I think Tony & Aurthur had something to do woth the Folk Club at or near the Golf Club in Altrincham. I think we went there around 1970. Tony died quite a while ago and I believe Authur still runs the Club in Bollington.

Tom Paley was a guest at Chorlton Folk Club about 4 years ago -played still lovely old songs with banjo acc. but also played soem Seedish fiddle tunes. I rather felt that most of the aidience had no idea just how priceless and indeed unique Tom and his music are.
Dave Bishop is still in brilliant voice and can be heard on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at The Beech on Beech Road Chorlton. If you are passing this way .................


L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Pip Radish
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 06:27 AM

Indeed, some of us had so little idea that we missed it altogether. (The marketing could have used some work. Jo announced it a couple of weeks before as a special night with no floorsingers and an entry fee of £3 instead of £1, thus removing at a stroke both of the things I liked about the club.)

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 07:25 AM

Good nights at the Billy Goat top Mossley

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Good Soldier Schweik
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 08:00 AM

Bury folk club was run by alan and jean seymour and others,had many good gigs there.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 10:39 AM

Hi

I should have said in my previous that Sale Folk Club is still going strong. The venue haS CHANGED. They are now at the United Services Club in Sale.

I believe their Club night is on Tuesdays and they have special guest nights on other dates.Sorry don't have the link with me...but you can Google it if you want to see what they are doing.

I was playing some years ago at the old Railway venue and Norman Prince was there - he had just left Auld Triangle - anyone remember them??? - and was looking to form another group. Of course all "Lanckies" will know that this became The Houghton Weavers.

Before this he came and helped me out a few times and I fixed him up with a few gigs when the Weavers first launched themselves.

cheers

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 10:46 AM

Hi

I just remembered another old haunt way back when??

The Pickering Arms at Thelwall - was run in those days by Maggie -

Some great times there..with many great folk musicians.

Cheers

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 11:54 AM

I remember a club in the Rochdale Cricket Club, I also attended one near Piccadilly, an upstairs room over a pub, but can't remember what it was called

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 12:05 PM

The Unicorn?

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,JohnB
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 12:37 PM

I frequented the Friday night folk club at the Noel Timpson Youth Centre in Cheetham Hill, run by Dave Davidson.
Went to a few that Mike Harding ran. The Old House at Home, an amazing little pub located right in the middle of ICI in Blakely, thanks to an ancient footpath. Ye Olde Golden Lion in Blakely Village. (maybe the Red Lion too for a while) and finally a pub whose name escapes me right opposite Heaton Park on Bury Old Rd.

Occasionally MSG when I could afford it.

Sometimes The Ring'O'Bells in Middleton.

Mostly (as we lived in Smithy Bridge within walking distance) the Fishermans at Hollingworth Lake which Jack and Mavis Lee ran on a Monday night, we still keep in touch with Jack and Mave.
They also ran another club which went mostly country music on either Kingsway or Queensway near Rochdale. (We left in England for Canada in 1977 so a lot of it is a bit misty)

Occasionaly the Poynton Folk Club, remember seeing Silly Wizard there if nothing else.

Bury Folk Club a couple of times, I think it was in a Cricket Club at that time.

My wife used to frequent the folk club at The Church Inn in Prestwich.

Somehow I think there was a couple more too, all of this was between 1966 and 1977.
JohnB.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Derek Schofield
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 01:40 PM

Ah, some memories here.
I went to Manchester University in Autumn 1969 with a bit of knowledge and experience of folk music from Liverpool - Spinners, Jackie and Bridie and school folk group. The university folk song club was then run by Andy and Brenda Towers and Stuart Hylton. By the end of my first year I was secretary, with Rob Ixer (who was soon to marry Rosie Hardman) as chairman. I had 2 years as secretary and highlights I now recall were Bob and John Copper (just after Song for every Season book and LPs came out), Bert Lloyd, Tim and Maddy (already in Steeleye and we packed the LDH), Martin Carthy, Jo ann Kelly, John James, Nic Jones. we also had a weekly singaround in thw Welcome Inn, Rusholme.

Meanwhile ... I was out and about in Manchester - I would say that buying the Deep Lancashire LP in January 1970 and then going to Harry Boardman's folk club (pre-Unicorn, at the Bull's Head in Failsworth) changed my life! That first night at Harry's club ... there was Harry, Terry Whelan, Dave Hillery and his then wife, the embryonic Canny Fettle .... at least two Nortthumbrian pipers (at a time when you'd be hard pressed to see ANY pipers). Ah .. forty years ago!!

Harry's club later moved to ... a pub on Stevenson Square in the city centre.

Meanwhile ... I started going to MSG and saw lots of performers ... first time there, I saw Blackpool Taverners, plus John O'Gaunt Morris, and Marie Little kept offering me crisps .. perhaps I looked like a starving student...

Meanwhile ... I got out and about to folk clubs during my two years, especially when publicising the Manchester Folk Festival in September 1971 which I helped organise. That was held in the uni union.

I remember a big concert in the Free Trade Hall in 1970, with Cyril Tawney, Tim and Maddy, High Level Ranters, Harry Boardman and Canny Fettle ... organised by Alan Hodgson .. big in guests, not big in audience ... lost money and Harry and Canny Fettle did fund raising events for him for a while after...

Bury Folk Club was a favourite. Fiery Clock Face as resident band, Steve Mayne. (This was after Valley Folk had split up).

well, that's all for now...

Derek

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,jimb
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 02:09 PM

After the colin campbell the Oldham Tinkers moved to the Oldham Hotel in the late 60's /early seventies.there were lots of clubs around the area.The Nelson on Union Street remember seeing Harry Boardman there about 71/72.
Then there was the Bath Hotel also on union street run by Bob lees and others -remember seeing Tim laycock there.
The Sergeant-at- Arms on King Street ran a club for a long time although it probaly finished in the early 80's
I also recall the Railway at Hollinwood run by the Hometowners.The Hometowners are still gong strong and are in concert at the Playhouse 2 in Shaw next Friday 29th January

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 04:06 PM

I used to go to MSG, Poynton and the Ring O' Bells in the 1970s, also the Fisherman's at Hollingworth Lake as John B mentioned.

In the 1980s, I remember: the Unicorn (City centre), the White Swan (Fallowfield), Bury FC (then in a Thwaites pub that ended up getting a bit rough), the Star (Salford), The White Lion (Swinton - still going), the Malt Shovels (Altrincham), the Station (Ashton), Rose & Crown (Stalybridge), the Waggon (Milnrow - Jolly Jack's club), and the Cross Keys (Uppermill). Tony and Marge Hill from the Unicorn ran a club at the Star & Garter on Fairfield Street in town at one point, and there was a club for a time at the Eagle & Child in Whitefield run by a very nice couple whose names I'm afraid I can't remember. Up here in Glossop, Will Williams was running a club (Will's still around) which unfortunately is remembered mainly as the club from which Nic Jones was returning home when he suffered his road accident.

As for 'Where are they now?', Harry Boardman, Joe Kerins and Terry Whelan from the Unicorn's halcyon days have all passed on, although Lesley B is still around. I saw Steve Mayne recently, but he's not involved with folk music of any stripe. Mary Humphries, Mark Dowding, Chris Manners and me - from the 1980s new crop of residents - are all still singing. Not sure what happened to Bob Morton or Nic Dennerly.

Ken and Mags Whiting, who used to run the Ring O' Bells in Middleton, later ran Glossop / Mottram folk clubs with me and my wife, and are still our good friends.

Jean and Alan Seymour and Jean's sister Sheila - of Bury FC - have been spotted at the newish club at Bromley Cross, Bolton.

Jim Schofield, who used to run the Rose & Crown at Stalybridge with the Black Edds, is now in charge of Uppermill and the Station Buffet Bar folk club.

[For Mary Humphries]: Arthur Wakefield was half of Tony and Arthur, and still runs a club in Bollington.

Annie and Terry Morris, who ran the White Swan, are now involved with the Potteries folk club.

Ian Stewart, who was resident at Poynton in 1973 when I went to a folk club for the first time, and had a big part in turning me on to this stuff, is apparently dead, but his playing partner Ric Jones is living in France and playing jazz and blues. Ray and Robin, the other early 70s residents, are still involved in music, I believe.

I'm sure there were others...

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Brian Peters
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 04:07 PM

GUEST above was me, for what it's worth.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,pete wood
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 04:14 PM

Christmas 1961, the left wing coffee house, brazenose street on a Sunday afternoon. Ban the bomb stuff, I'd only just heard about folk music. Dont think I went there again, but I did find out about the Wayfarer's then at the Waggon and Horses. I went there every vacation from University at Sheffield util the end of 63. Epic times, with Harry, Terry Whelan, and Dave who the club bought the guitar for, lady Terry, Paul Graney, Frank banjo player, Tom Gilfellon then a student in Manchester, and many more. Later the MSG club, and especially the Bury club, but alas, I never lived in the area again. One thing to emphasise is the great encouragement I got at all these clubs, starting with Harry at the Wayfarers. Even gigs! Remembered with fondness.

Pete Wood

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,JohnB
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 05:12 PM

Guest jimb, say Hi to Mick Collins in the Hometowners when you see him.
I worked at Hawker Siddeley Aviation in Chadderton with both him and Jack Lee, donkeys years ago. Before he left to become a firefighter and Jack went to whatever they were called and I came to Canada.
I was talking about him with Lorraine (Tony Downes ex) when I stayed with them on Vancouver Island a couple of years ago.
I thought that was you Brian, we will see you in September we hope.
JohnB

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 06:19 PM

Nice to hear the comments about Sale Folk Club at the Railway. I started the club there in 1971 and I've still got a copy of the flier for the first few weeks. We ran every Wednesday until 1976, when we had to move because Robinson's brewery wanted to tart up the pub. We moved to the Sale Hotel which had a very big upstairs room, but the atmosphere was completely different from the old Railway so we eventually packed it in. I noticed that a club has started up in Sale and intend to go some time.

There was also a Sunday night club at the Railway, run by Dave Mandel and Bob Wilson. It was previously at the Queens Hotel up the road but had to move. Dave Mandel was a real character - he played ukelele, finished one of his songs by standing on his head, and tried to persuade us once that he was in fact over 800 (yes eight hundred) years old!

In reply to MikeL2, the Pickering Arms in Thelwall was run by Maggie Goodall - another club I enjoyed. Nice that Thelwall is remembered for something apart from traffic jams on the M6!

I'm surprised there hasn't been more about the MSG, but it was the subject of an earlier thread: manchester sports guild folk club

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 24 Jan 10 - 07:51 PM

You can see the flier for Sale Folk club in the previous posting at http://www.gradelydesigns.co.uk/sale_folk.jpg

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,John J
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 08:11 AM

The current Sale Folk Club (at the United Services Club) has no connection with the original club at the Railway, it's more of an 'open mike' club with a couple of trad singers. Good though. And good, cheap ale.

Not that I'd be swayed by good, cheap ale. Not me.

Sadly the old Railway, a wonderful Victorian building, was demolished when Robinsons decided they needed 'modern' pubs rather than pubs with character. The replacement building is a disgrace.

Ho hum.

JJ

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: David el Gnomo
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 08:36 AM

We have been running Swinton folk club for over 30 years - More than 25 of which has been at the White Lion. So, not the 40+ years as asked but certainly getting on that way:-)

DeG

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Pip Radish
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 08:44 AM

it's more of an 'open mike' club with a couple of trad singers

Or three when I go along!

Working backwards, what's the genealogy of the current Sale FC? I was there on its opening night, and they had a raft of "regulars" already.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 09:35 AM

Hi

I heard Bob Morton died some years ago.....on the way home from the pub.

At the time I knew Bob he played with Ken Scott and Ken Greenhough and others.....Scottie too died some years back.

That's the sad thing about a thread like this..

But it brings back many great memories...Paul Graney.....great stalward of folk music

cheers

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 10:28 AM

Their is currently a big hole in the middle of Manchester with no clubs and a surrounding ring of places where clubs still provide some excellent music - will it always stay that way?

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 10:33 AM

First one I ever went to was in the cellar (honestly !) of Old Moat Conservative Club, Wilmslow Road, Withington.

I remember the Golden Lion club well , having MCd there a few nights.

The Ring o' Bells, Middleton.

There was indeed a session (for want of better term) at the Altrincham Golf Club - if my memory serves me right (and there's no guarantee) it was fronted by Pete Wilmott OBE (Old Bald'Ead).

There was a "contemporary" club at the Lantern Wythenshawe, and another at the Shakespeare off Piccadilly.

Jim Carroll's Manchester Critics at some alehouse on High Street off Market Street. (Happy days)

The Manchester Ramblers in some "dive bar" again off Market Street - the Kearney brothers, Maurice Walsh and Maire McCana.

The Cheshire Folk, in Sale ?

The Pennine Folk, the Bush, Hyde, later at Hyde Football Club.

The Ash, off Manchester Road, Stockport.

The Navigation, Lancashire Hill, Stockport, where I first saw Martin Carthy live - October 9th 1966 - my "Sam Larner" moment.

The Navigation, Saturday - the Stockport Jug o' Punch club, which I ran with Roy Chamberlain and Dave Wilson.

The Two Brewers, Salford, with the North West Folk Four.

Heaton Moor Rugby Club.

Irish Sessions at the Ducie, behind the University Theatre, and at the Clarence, Rusholme, with Mise Ceol ; and then on to the Exiles of Eireann.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Guest (Arfur Brain)
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 12:27 PM

I have fond memories of Poynton Folk Centre in the early '70s. The McCalmans and The Johnstons were my first introductions to folk clubs as a schoolboy, and I have been involved ever since.
Then there was the Deanwater, a rather odd place in the function room of a posh hotel. Hotel guests could apparently get in free, and on one occasion I saw one (complete with fur coat!) come in and sit down next to (what she though was) the wall. The guests were Five Hand Reel, the "wall" was actually their bank of speakers, they opened their first number with a power chord on the electric guitar, and this woman jumped about three feet into the air. She only lasted another few minutes before she walked out, and missed a superb gig.
Years later, living in Hertfordshire, I went to see someone I had never (at the time)heard of, who was described as "The Stockport Fruitcake" - Geoff Higginbottom. At the interval we were talking about the Deanwater, when he stopped and said "You went to Stockport Grammar School, didn't you". I had to confess I did. To which came the reply "You were that ba***rd prefect who always kept me in!" Fame at last!!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Howard Jones
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 12:55 PM

Geoff Higginbottom was one of the residents at Annie Morris's club at the White Swan Fallowfield, which Brian mentioned. I was another. John O'Hagan of Cockersdale was also a regular. There were other excellent singers, but I'm struggling to remember any more names. It was a great club, with a strong guest list.

I was also a regular at the Malt Shovels in Altrincham, run by Susie Stockton. Another great club with an excellent guest list.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Good Soldier Schweik
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 01:33 PM

Yes,I remember doing several gigs at White Swan, and meeting Howard Jones, who was then a member of the electropathic battery band.
of course I knew Howard , before that from his Essex days.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: John J
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 02:19 PM

Suzie Stockton (who ran the Malt Shovels Folk Club in it's later years) now lives in mid-Wales, I'm still in touch with her - she visits Mobberley every Good Friday.

Bob Morton, who along with the rest of the Union Folk, ran the Malt Shovels Folk club in earlier years, died early last year. He tripped and fell walking home from the Railway (?) in Hale. He got home okay and went to bed but was taken ill during the night. Sadly he never recovered. At his funeral the church was heaving with familiar faces from the past and present.

JJ

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Brian Peters
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 02:23 PM

Sad news about Bob - I'd have gone to the funeral if I'd known. He had a lovely singing style and was an excellent guitarist. And a nice bloke.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Peter Stockport
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 02:59 PM

"Geoff Higginbottom was one of the residents at Annie Morris's club at the White Swan Fallowfield, which Brian mentioned. I was another. John O'Hagan of Cockersdale was also a regular. There were other excellent singers, but I'm struggling to remember any more names."
There was loads of them, Annies was a spring board for lots of people. Like a youth academy for folkmusic.
By the time it was ready to move from the White Swan the other names were
Me!! Peter Hood, Also Tom Travis, Lesley-I forget her second name but a lovely singer...and Maggie Billington.
The club then entered a new phase at The Gateway. I enjoyed a couple of really good years there until it closed which I think was just at the end of the Nineties!
Peter Stockport

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 04:18 PM

Annies club passsed through The Lloyds in Chorlton for a while after the Gateway

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Susie Stockton
Date: 25 Jan 10 - 07:15 PM

The Cheshire Folk and assorted others ran a club in the vaults of what was the Unicorn on the old Market Place - the main road through Altrincham. When I found out about it, fresh little daisy that I was then, I used to get the bus there - but I couldn't afford to get in AND get the bus back - so I used to walk the however-many-miles-it-was home to Ashton on Mersey. Half the Cheshire Folk do the Mobberley Eight on Good Friday. They ran the WellGreen - now a housing estate in Hale. The Union Folk ran the Durham Ox in Congleton, and then started up at the malt Shovels in Altrincham. I helped them out, and took over when they packed up. It's jolly nice to hear that people have fond memories - we had some terrific nights there. Some great performers, super floor singers.
One of the most memorable night was with Gerald Trimble, Jimmy Crowley, George Faux, peter carberry and some of the lads from the Irish club in Wythernshame AND Shay Black and some of the Liverpool Irish lads. How they hell they all got onstage I don't know. Was that one of the nights it was just too good to stop and we all decamped to Raimondo's Sicilian restaurant on the Downs?
And I recall mad cricket matches against other folk clubs...

Happy days, eh?

I'm still singing - and not just folk - check out www.villagequire.org.uk

Nice to hear of old friends!

Susie

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Peter Stockport
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 09:08 AM

Of course if we're looking up to 1999 the Red Bull in Stockport was going then, as was it's reincarnation The Bridge--- Now the Midway Folk Club Stockport.
Not old enough to be nostalgic and were all so old now that by the time we get nostalgic it will be too late. We'll all be singing for angels...
In fact there's still lots of clubs in Manchester, if you don't go to a club how about getting out there and going to one instead of just reminding yourself how good it was?
Just google it! There's a good chance you'll know some one already!
Peter

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 09:33 AM

hi Susie

We must have waltzed around in similar circles.

I have stated earlier that many years ago my Aunt & Uncle used to be landlords at The Malt Shovels....but way before your time I think.

I too used to go into the Unicorn on folk nights though my local was next door at the Orange Tree - too small for a folk club !!

I didn't have as far as you to walk....I lived right opposite The George & Dragon at that time.

I formed a folk club at The Linotype Club in Broadheath and I got Cheshire Folk to help me with the residency there.

We had some great nights there and we also had " The Irish " crowd in one night.....there were almost as many musicians as audience !! Very cosy that night !!! We had a lot of good quality guests and some excellent floor singers..

Thank you for reminding me about Maggie from The Pickering Arms. Yes her name was Goodall - I'd forgotten that. I think she was the daughter of the landlords there. I think she went on to run Lymm Folk Club for some time. The Club then moved on to The Railway and did so for some years.

That club must have been one of the best if you judge a club by it's quality of guests. They have had many top folk musicians including Martin Carthy, Dave Swarbrick, Vin Garbutt Harvey Andrews et al...

Memories are made of this...

regards

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 11:14 AM

With all this enthusiasm being generated why not pop down to the Beech in Chorlton and enjoy the first birthday of The Beginners Tune Session plus some songs and Ms Liz Caulderbank who will dance famous Lancashire clog dances?

Cheers

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 11:19 AM

In response to various posts -

I'd love to know who GUEST (Arfur Brain) actually is? I don't remember the fur coat incident but he is wrong on one point. Hotel guests did not get in for nothing because the "hotel" didn't let out rooms. Memories of the Deanwater are too many to explain - like the night Telephone Bill unloaded their ambulance under the porch wedging it under the roof so the audience couldn't get in. Then there was the night Jake Thackray was being annoyed by Ian Stewart and Jake announced to the audience "I'm being paid for being a pillock, what's your excuse?"

I've been wondering what happened to Ken Scott for some time. I last met him on the ferry from Hollyhead to Dublin.

Tom Travis is still around and we went out for a meal with Arthur Wakefield and the old crowd a few weeks ago.

I remember the Golden Lion - org. Andrew Harris and Russell Appleton - all the musicians I knew hated the place.
Ray

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 02:25 PM

Hi Ray

I you Ken Scott very well. In fact ken's wife Jean and my wife were best friends at school and for many years afterwards.
We haven't seen each other for some time now

Ken and I used to play together occasionally at parties etc and he used to help me out at some charity evenings I used to organise.

i remember on one occasion when someone let me down at the last minute I asked Ken to help.

He rung me back and said that he was bringing a couple of friends and would I be able to pay expenses.

I said OK but to my amazement he turned up with quite a few of his mates and also had invited Gary & Vera Aspey who were available at short notice.

We had a great night but my budget got a little stretched !!!

His monologues always went down well as well......

A character was old Ken.

Cheers

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 06:50 PM

I also remember the Oldham Tinkers at the Colin Campbell, and earlier at the Waterloo on Union Street. They were always packed and we had some great nights there. I seem to remember they moved to another pub further up Glodwick road before the Oldham Hotel, but I can't remember the name.

In those days we always had difficulty in running a Folk Club in Oldham, where we could charge admission and pay guest singers. There was some obscure bylaw that banned charging admission to a room in a pub, and the police used to enforce it rigorously (you'd think they would have had better things to do!). I started a club at the Nelson on Union Street in about 1967, and we were raided by the police in about the second or third week. We couldn't guarantee to raise enough to pay guests from voluntary contributions that the police suggested, so we had to close down.

To get round it, some of us moved out of town - I started a club at the Swan Inn (Top House) in Dobcross, Saddleworth, and the Hometowners went to the Railway in Hollinwood. The Tinkers stayed in Oldham as they never charged admission anyway.

I think the bylaw probably fell into disuse after local government reorganisation in 1974, or perhaps the police found other ways to occupy their time than hounding a few folkies. Happy days!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Jan 10 - 07:45 PM

Just chanced across this thread and Brian Peter's post of the 24th Jan. It brings back some great memories. Nick Dennerly is living in the Wirral and is keen for a tune or three and I'm in Bristol. Of the old Canny Fettle band I used to play with in the early days of the Manchester and North West folk clubs, including the Unicorn, Bob Diehl now lives with Jane in Hamburg and Gerry Murphy is in Basel. Steve Turner is now back on the folk scene and I hear great things about his gigs. Bob, Gerry and I all still play and see each other but too infrequently due to the distance. Nowadays I mainly play for Dalriada a Scottish country dance band. I heard an interesting piece on the radio yesterday saying that the Star Inn in Salford (just off great Clowes St) had been bought by a cooperative of its customers to save it from closure. i remember some great nights there in the late 70's and early 80's at the folk club that I think was run by Martin Gittens?
Bob Morton

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 05:11 AM

Ah, yes, the Golden Lion. They were a couple of arseholes but they paid well. They had to.

That was the last place I saw Brian "Tiger" Moss. I remember he and his lady handed out "der-ders" to the audience, and half of the audience fucked off with them, including Andrew (Faaaantaaastic, ladies and gentlemen) and Russ.

Am I right in thinking that they organised a Magna Carta concert at the Free Trade Hall ?

Do you know, with the sole exceptions of Tiger, and Rosemary Hardman, I can't remember a single other act, and me one of the MCs.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Brian Peters
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 05:13 AM

Hello Bob - the one who died was a different Bob Morton, then! Good to hear from you. As you say, great memories...

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 05:41 AM

I remember seeing various members of Gorton Tank at Harry & Lesley's Club at The Unicorn and one amazing night at Annie Morris's Club at The White Swan in Followfield, as well as great sets of dance tunes and some excellent old songs they did a raving version of My Way - Frank Sinatra via Sid Viscous with Chris Cole standing on a table at some point!

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Shimrod
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 11:39 AM

The first folk club I ever went to in Manchester was the one at the Cavalcade in Didsbury (I'm referring to that big pub on the corner of Barlow Moor Road and Wilmslow Road - God knows what it's called now!) which was run by Harry Boardman and Canny Fettle. This would be either late 1972 or early 1973. It was excellent (apart from the dubious acoustics resulting from the Indian restaurant style floc wallpaper) and CF were superb. I'm so glad to hear that CF's Bob Morton is still with us!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 01:20 PM

Come on Bryn, the pay was awful!

Re. Canny Fettle - I ran into Bob and Jane last year - Jane still has her cottage in Derbyshire.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: 8_Pints
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 03:38 PM

I too am relieved that Bob Morton is alive and well.

I first met Bob when introduced by my mate Kevin Lavelle at the MSG.

My vinyl LP of Canny Fettle is still in good condition and gets played regularly. Did you make any other albums Bob?

Bob vG

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Good Soldier Schweik
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 03:41 PM

yes,it was Martin Gittins[note the speling]who ran Salford Folk club.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Bob Morton
Date: 27 Jan 10 - 08:17 PM

My goodness, the mention of the Cavalcade (and the floc wallpaper) and MSG brought back an avalanche of nostalgia. In those days Harry also ran a session at the Crown Inn just up the road in Didsbury and we could play in a session or go a club every night of the week.

Re Canny Fettle recordings, we appeared on a number of records and also produced 'Trip to Harrogate' on the Tradition label which was re released by Fellside on CD and is still available, I think. We did this with Dave Hillary, Dave Howes (who discovered the Joshua Jackson manuscript on which the LP was based) and Phil Bartlett. Bob and I then helped form the Village Band before he left to work in Amsterdam and subsequently VB (Jane, Mike Pinder, Roger Fiskin, Steve Read and myself) recorded a tape 'Fast Forwsrd' that alluded to the speed of some of the tunes we played.

The other excellent club I have fond memories of was the Old Nelson in Salford that we ran with Harry in the early 1970's. We then moved to the Black Lion, also in Salford but nearer town.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 01:56 AM

I used to go to a club upstairs in the Duke of York in Eccles. I think it used to be in the Cross Keys but that was before my time although I did MC a couple of concerts there in the mid seventies. There was a short lived club at the Willows around 1975/6 as well.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Roughyed
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 01:58 AM

That last post was me sans cookie

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Helen Jocys
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 03:01 AM

I enjoyed many nights at the Exile in Ancoats. It used to be packed out. Margaret - forget second name - ran it. She was always running out of beer!! Sully was a regular there. Happy days (nights.)

HelenJ

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 05:55 AM

I remember one evening/night/morning : after playing in the Ducie, we went off to the Plaza for a biryani, and then on to the Exiles of Eireann.

Got the first non-all-night bus from Piccadilly, home, wash, shave and straight into work, still three parts pissed.

Great days - jesus its over 40 years ago !

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 08:44 AM

I also have a fond memory of the club upstairs in the Duke of York in Eccles. I played a gig there just before Christmas 1971, and met a lovely girl in the audience. To cut a long story short, we've now been married for just over 35 years!

Love you Kath XXX

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 10:46 AM

I have posted above about a particular calendar date I remember - October 9th 1966, when I first saw Martin Carthy 'live' (in concert) at the Navigation, Lancashire Hill, Stockport : my "Sam Larner" moment.

(To let you know, I had been playing bass guitar with a 'rock group' [that dates me, don't it ?] and, "we" had been doing Peter Paul and Mary numbers in gigs - and they were going down. I became more interested in "folky" stuff

which, inter alia, led to the break up of the outfit. The next incarnation, with me still on bass, gave birth to the Hollies.)

There is just one other calendar date I can be positive about : December 6th 1971, Poynton FC, where I was the support for the Johnstons, and fell arse over earholes in love with Adrienne.

Strange, that no one seems to remember the club at the Saddle, Bradshawgate, Bolton, with Meic Stevens and Ian Chisholm, and John Roberts (oh, and your correspondent).

Ian Chisholm was the only guitarist (and he had a Gibson J45 - in 1965 !!) I ever heard, before and since, who could "bend" a harmonic in the style of Davy Graham.

Meic Stevens looked like an ape, sang like an angel and could play 12 string guitar like Lead Belly - and then some.

I still have the single he made for Decca "Did I see or did I dream", backed with "Gathering Clouds of Black and Grey".

Whether it would play or not is another matter.

There seemed to be a fashion for "Folk Groups" at this time - there was the Frank Duffy FG, and the Meic Stevens FG - and I will swear that dramatis personae were Meic, Ian Chisholm and ANNA FORD - yes, that one.

Someone mentioned the "Cavalcade" Didsbury. When it was the host for the Didsbury Training College FC it was the "Wellington", surely ?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Dominic Kearney
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 03:03 PM

Would that "dive" off Market St. have been The Castle Hotel?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Bill S from Melbourne
Date: 29 Jan 10 - 05:29 AM

Nobody mentioned the Salford University Folk Club which I was involved with from 68-72, saw the top touring acts and we used to get good houses, up to 300 for club nights, most of our audience coming from the nearby estates. Also from memory, Steeleye Span played the first or a very early gig at the Uni. Chris and Toni Hicks, Keith Sudbury and Andy were residents and we had some good floor singers. We were subsidised by the Uni as well as turning a good profit and I remember one year booking Mr Fox who were quite expensive and still made a profit. Acts were booked through the MSG from memory (are they in the list above?)
Another club was upstairs at the Bird in Hand in Flixton Rd, Urmston which was our local and we only found out about the folk club by accident.
Are you going as far as Macclesfield, Les?
bill

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 29 Jan 10 - 06:05 AM

Hi Bill, Sid Calderbank challenged the existance of Greater Manchester - a fair point in some ways - so I guess it's Manchester and the world? Mac's OK with me. my mate Ged goes to a session in Mac most Fridays and Tony Sullivan still generates great music from that direction!

Cheers

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Peter Stockport
Date: 29 Jan 10 - 07:10 AM

The Calvalcade was a separate club from Didsbury Teacher Training College, at least I think it was! I don't remember Harry Boardman turning up at the College. Ted Edwardes was there as a Student and I seem to remember Clive Gregson coming to perform as well as the late Mary Asquith.
The Calvalcade was called the Calvalcade at this point and had been so for a few years!
Peter

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Bill S from Melbourne
Date: 30 Jan 10 - 02:15 AM

Les
Re Greater Manchester, I lived in Cheadle Hulme and we kept our addresses as Cheadle hulme, Cheshire as long as we could cos it kept the value of the house better than Stockport, Greater Manchester. If you are sticking to GM you would include Wigan to Rochdale but not Poynton. but who cares? It's an interesting thread.
Wassail
Bill

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 30 Jan 10 - 10:29 AM

People in Cheadle Hulme still tell people they live in Cheshire when they haven't done for 36 years.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 30 Jan 10 - 10:45 AM

Hi ray

I lived in Altrincham and when it became part of Trafford Greater Manchester, there was an agreement that the postal address could be retained as Altrincham Cheshire.

My son still lives there and as far as I know it is still the same. At least when I send his Christmas cards etc I still use that address.

cheers

mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 30 Jan 10 - 12:04 PM

Actuarly, I am from Cheshire you know? From that small but beautiful old market town of Ellesmere Port! Now that's what I call Cheshire

L currently in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: doncatterall
Date: 30 Jan 10 - 01:19 PM

to extend the "thread creep", I am from Eccles, Lancashire (Not Greater Manchester)but born in Davyhulme (not sure if that was Lancs or Cheshire??)

I know that many in Saddleworth are still proudly living in Yorkshire and that many living in London Boroughs consider that they live in Kent, Essex etc.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: John J
Date: 30 Jan 10 - 03:19 PM

I didn't know you were born in Davyhulme Don - so was I.

There weren't many folk clubs there - just the Nags Head about 15 years ago.

Hope you're well!

John

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 31 Jan 10 - 05:14 AM

There are people living in Stockport who add Cheshire to their address when the part of Stockport they actually live in has never been in the county. That part of Stockport North of the Mersey was originally in Lancashire.

As to how far people should include, nostalgia may not be what it used to be but a fair percentage of the clubs people are reminiscing about date from before there was such a place as Greater Manchester (i.e. before 1/4/74)

Anyhow, does anybody remember the Saturday night Staleybridge Station crowd (late 70's)- led by Rob & Cheryl? I could probably name a few more but who can remember.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 31 Jan 10 - 06:20 AM

My wife ans I played in the buffet - guitar ang harmonium - brilliant Club still so.

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Raggytash
Date: 31 Jan 10 - 07:16 AM

I first went to the Duke of York in Eccles about 1969, underage a fact which Ma Brand waasn't too happy with, but a got any with it somehow, saw some great turns there, Marie Little, Penny Wager, Jolly Jack, Ted Edwards took me under his wing and for time I was his chauffeur when the boys in blue deemed he had imbibed a little too much. Took Ted to loads of gigs for a year I'm sure I knew his act better than he did, cos I was (compartively) sober. He did a gig one night on the outside of Oldham, the following day we couldn't remember who had driven home till a dim recollection came to me of negoitating my MBG roadster through the centre of Manchester at 3 in the morning. Before I left Manchester I started, with my good lady, the Red Lion at Patricroft which turned out to be a cracking little club. When I left Phil Cusack took over and moved the club to the Duke of York ..............it's all a circle

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Pip Radish
Date: 31 Jan 10 - 10:19 AM

I went to Stalybridge a couple of times in 1994, when I was first thinking about giving this folk lark a go. Is it still going? If so, it must be one of the longest-running clubs in a single venue (in this area!).

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 31 Jan 10 - 12:11 PM

Perhaps we could get a team up?

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Alan
Date: 10 Feb 10 - 02:50 PM

In the late 1970's I was in the KeithMel Co. and we played at the following...
Rose and Crown, Stalybridge
The Woodlands, Cheetham Hill
Whute Gate Inn, Hyde
The Ash, Hazel Grove
The Nook, Reddish
The Three Crowns, Reddish
Hat & Feathers, Miles Platting
The Britons Protection, Manchester City Centre
The Star Inn, Salford
The Fir Tree, Reddish
The White Lion, Withington
The Eagle and Child, Whitefield
The Three Tuns, Hazel Grove
The Victoria,Middleton
We set up and ran a folk club at The Cheshire Hunt, Gorton, helped set up one at The Railway, West Gorton and had a regular residency at The Pen and Wig, Salford. So maybe these can be added to your list of venues?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Folkiedave
Date: 10 Feb 10 - 08:20 PM

Their is currently a big hole in the middle of Manchester with no clubs and a surrounding ring of places where clubs still provide some excellent music - will it always stay that way?

Same-ish in Sheffield!! Why?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 11 Feb 10 - 05:09 AM

If we are going out as far as Macc., then there was the White Swan at Disley (the Mucky Duck).

There was also the Sunday night FC at Compstall, just beyond Romiley.

Can someone put me out of my misery [no, not like that, you silly-born tw*t ! : - D ] and remind me of the name of the Robinson s house just opposite Stockport market the landlord of which was Meurig Jones ?

Oh, and the surname of "Frank" who ran the Thursday club at the Navigation, top of Lancashire Hill ? That is the first, last and only time I heard and saw Ann Briggs in concert. "Frank" played a Gibson 12, which had nine strings on it.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Peter Stockport
Date: 11 Feb 10 - 06:20 AM

Alan, You forgot the Thatched Tavern Reddish, Blimey Keith and Mel, I'd forgot all about them, they probably forgot me... I played at the Pen and Wig with Andy one time...
Peter

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 11 Feb 10 - 08:38 AM

As to the big hole in Cities - is to do with no more drink driving and poor public transport?

We do a few things in Chorlton and I can walk to all of them. When the Metro goes past the end of our road other things become possible - like a tram and a train to Staleybridge for obvious reasons!

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Tally Ho Man
Date: 12 Feb 10 - 06:12 AM

Just adding to the thread in relation to JJ's comments about Sale Folk club on 25th Jan. The club is thriving and the mix of contributions range through traditional to more contemporary music and songs along with a scattering of monologues and poetry, all very eclectic and at least were now stuck in front of the telly or wandering aimlessly around the Trafford Centre. JJ describes it as "open mic" which it isn't; it is all unplugged but , I suppose, along those lines.

The club started in October 2008 and is run by enthusiastic residents and there are regular guest nights.

I remember, only vaguely, the folk club at the Railway in Sale, but, being so much younger than JJ, only went once before the pub met its demise and the current monstrosity was built.

I think it is a healthy turn of events that such a new club can be so popular and feel that the spirit of those clubs around in1960-99 still exists in some form in the new millennium.

Have a look here. There's a weekly news letter which will tell you the sort of stuff that goes on. JJ is right, the beer is cheap and good and the evenings are a lot of fun!

http://www.salefolkclub.co.uk/

Cheers,

Mark.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Tally Ho Man
Date: 12 Feb 10 - 07:58 AM

"were now" above

Should read "we're not"!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Flash Company
Date: 12 Feb 10 - 11:40 AM

Golly, what a thread! haven't had time to read it all but it sure brought back a lot of memories.
I was a regular at Linotype in it's day, The Wellgreen, The Malt Shovels in both Bob Morton's and Susie Stockton's days, and later when it was revived by 'Agraman' as more of a comedy club.
Nice to see so many who remember the good old days.

FC (aka Brian Quinn)

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 12 Feb 10 - 12:14 PM

As I said earlier, it's nice that people remember the old Sale Folk Club at the Railway. I started it in 1971 and ran it until Robinsons decided to wreck it. You can see the flier for the opening nights at http://www.gradelydesigns.co.uk/sale_folk.jpg

I thought that looked a pretty good lineup at the time - and it still does.

Anyone remember Illman Riley? I seem to think there were two of them, both called Eric; one maybe Eric Crowther, and I can't remember the other one's surname. Any ideas?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Tally Ho Man
Date: 25 Feb 10 - 09:28 AM

It's fascinating to see the original flyer from 1971. I remember the Railway and the existence of the folk club but was still at school (Sale Grammar) at the time. I played 'cello in our school orchestra and remember my music teacher buying me a pint in the Railway after a concert in the Sale Civic theatre during Sale Festival. I played a particular piece and got it right, probably much to his astonishment, and was rewarded for my efforts by being encouraged into under age drinking. How times have changed, if a teacher was to buy a student any sort of alcohol these days, he or she would, no doubt, be pilloried by society.

Whilst I never attended the club, being only the tender age of 16 and fairly shy in those days, another music teacher, Miss Callison (who I think became Mrs Dixon), did attend and she told me about it. She introduced me to guitar tablature and the first song I learned by this method was "Don't Think Twice" which she had written out for me. This was when I made my first real connection with folk music and I've maintained an interest ever since.

When I turned 18 I used to go to the Railway for a pint but it met it's demise soon after (I don't think I was to blame). It's a shame that such fine venues have been lost, the Railway at Heatley is another recent closure, but it is also good to note that traditions are still being kept alive in the many folk clubs that still exist and by like minded people.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 25 Feb 10 - 12:10 PM

The Beech, Beech Road, Chorlton. Songs mostly but not exclusively traditional.First and third Wednesdays. Beginners Tunes last Tuesday.

Cheers

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,RCWhiting
Date: 27 Feb 10 - 08:50 PM

Between 1963-66 I enjoyed many visits to the Two Brewers in Salford.
The North-West Folk Four (who dropped the NW when they became a little more successful) provided a varied evening with plenty of anecdotes and beer.
Only Bryn Pugh (25 Jan 10.33 am) has mentioned them. Does anyone else have any memories or news?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Rod...
Date: 28 Feb 10 - 06:40 AM

Re Bryn Pugh above - the 'Frank' whose surname you were looking for may well be Frank Brown whom I knew in London in the sixties as a fellow busker. He was from Manchester - or the environs - played a Gibson twelve string and I know that he knew Anne Briggs well. Haven't seen him in many years so don't know if he's still about...

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 28 Feb 10 - 01:55 PM

hi GuestRCWhiting

I certain remember going to the Two Brewers.
I went once or twice. On one occasion the session was broadcast - I think on ITV.

Guests included Magna Carta. My memory is a little blurred about any other details.
But they were good sessions.

Cheers

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: doncatterall
Date: 28 Feb 10 - 07:00 PM

At the Two Brewers saw:- Pentangle, Ralph Mctell, Magna Carta

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 01 Mar 10 - 03:44 AM

These clubs appear to function in 'Greater Manchester' what ever that is.

Additions, deletions and ammendments please.

Monday
Jolly Angler, Ducie St. Manchester.

Folk at the Prospect Monday Prospect Inn Weston Road,   Weston Village Runcorn,   Cheshire WA7 4LD .

Swinton Folk Club Monday White Lion 242 Manchester Rd Swinton Manchester M27 4TS

Midway Folk Club Monday Midway Tavern, 263 Newbridge Lane, Stockport, SK1 2NX 8:30

Tuesday
Beginners Tune Session, The Beech, Beech Road, Chorlton ,Manchester Last Tuesday of the month

Fox & Goose, Wigan Lane. Tuesdays 8.30 pm Joan Blackburn

Sale Folk Club Tuesday: United Services Club, Southern Rd, Sale, M33 6HQ 8:00

Googlies Singers Night: Didsbury Cricket Club, Wilmslow Rd. East Didsbury, Manchester M20 2ZY 1st Tuesday 8:30

Peveril of the Peak Session: Tuesday Peveril of the Peak, 127 Great Bridgewater St. Manchester. M1 5JQ 8:30

Urmston Acoustics: Nags Head, Davyhulme Circle, Lostock Rd, Urmston. M41 0SU 1st Tuesday 8:30)

Acoustic Collective: Tuesday Wharf Tavern, Staly Wharf, Caroline St, Stalybridge, SK15 1PD

Crown Folk & Acoustic Club: Tuesday Crown Inn, Heaton Ln. Stockport SK4 1AR 8:30

Ring O' Bells Free Singers Club: Tuesday Ring o' Bells, Pit Lane, Widnes WA8 9HU 8:30 (0

Royal Oak, Tuesday Bradshaw Brow, Harwood, Bolton, BL2 3DD 2nd & 4th Tuesdays (012

Wednesday
Singaround at The Beech, Beech Road, Chorlton, Manchester 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month

Cross Keys Pub In The Barn Uppermill Every Wednesday 9pm OL3 6LW

Stockport trad English tunes session..Ye Olde Vic King ST Stockport Hosted By Peter Hood
On the second and fourth Wed of every month

Thursday
Chorlton Folk Club Thursday SW Manchester Cricket Club, Ellesmere Road, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0SG 9:00

Lymm Folk Club Thursday Spread Eagle Hotel, Eagle Brow, Lymm WA13 0AG 8:30

Heaton Mersey Singaround: Thursday Sports & Social Club, Harwood Rd. Heaton Mersey, Stockport. SK4 3AW 1st Thu 8:30

Stalybridge Singaround Thursday The White House, 1 Water Lane, Stalybridge, SK15 2AG

For Folk's Sake: Thursday Zion Arts Centre, 335 Stretford Rd, Hulme, Manchester M15 5ZA 1st or 2nd Thu 8:00

Glossop Folk Train: depart Manchester Piccadilly Station M1 2PB 6:37 Return 10:17 4th Thu

Friday
The Dog and Partridge Friday Bollington Arthur Wakefield

Full Circle Folk Club Friday: Parkside Hotel, 281 Bury Old Rd, Prestwich, Manchester, M25 1JA 8:30

Northwich Folk Club: Friday Harlequin Theatre, Queen St. Northwich CW9 5JN 8:30

Porkies Folk Club: Royal British Legion, George's St. West, Poynton SK12 1JY 1st Fri 8:30 (

Salford Folk Music Workshop: Friday Room 200, Maxwell Building, Salford University, Manchester M5 4WT 1st Fri 8:00

Saturday
Stalybridge Buffet Bar Saturday --Right on the train station. Superb beer, good evening hosted by Jim Schofield

Sunday
Heaton Moor Session Sunday The Plough, Heaton Moor Rd, Heaton Moor, Stockport SK4 4NZ 1st & 3rd Sun 1:00

Ring O' Bells Folk Club: Sunday Ring O' Bells, Church St. Warrington WA1 2TL 8:30

Jolly Angler Singaround Sunday Jolly Angler, Ducie St. Manchester. M1 2JW 9:00

Pm or directly here

Best wishes

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 01 Mar 10 - 04:51 AM

Guest Rod - yes, of course, Frank Brown. Thank you for this.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 01 Mar 10 - 05:13 AM

Strange, that no one has (yet) mentioned the Crown and Anchor, where the original Buggermen - sorry ! Beggarmen - played.

I remember Tony Kelly and ? Walsh who were later a duo. I bought Tony's Harmony Sovereign, and I wish I still had her.

Eamonn and Gerry did some MCing at the Guild.

Someone told me that baldy fiddler who liked spreading rumours is still around . . .

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 02 Mar 10 - 10:53 AM

Terry Walsh.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 02 Mar 10 - 01:21 PM

The fiddler was Martin Lynott, not Terry Walsh, and I've never heard about any "... spreading rumours ...".

After the Beggarmen split, Terry and Tony Kelly went out as a duo, and used to alternate with myself and Al Lawrence in running sessions at the MSG, before its demise.

I believe Martin is one of the residents at a session on Mondays at the Oddfellows in Middleton - see http://www.folkimages.com/Oddfellows.htm. I'm not sure if it's still in operation.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: JohnB
Date: 02 Mar 10 - 06:11 PM

Didn't Martin play with Tony Downes as the Two Beggermen?
JohnB.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Richard in Manchester
Date: 02 Mar 10 - 06:36 PM

"Can someone put me out of my misery ... and remind me of the name of the Robinson s house just opposite Stockport market the landlord of which was Meurig Jones ?"

Bryn, there are three pubs facing onto the market place itself. The Bull's Head, Boar's Head and Baker's Vaults. They all used to have music regularly, not so much these days, and mostly blues rather than folk.

There may have been more folk music there back in the 70s and early 80s. Peter in Stockport should be able to confirm that; it would have been someone attached to the Goode/Hood axis running it, whatever it was!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 09:05 AM

No, Paul ? I did.

For the number of women I was supposed to have been engaged to :


If I had screwed the number of women I was supposed to have been engaged to, I wouldn't have a penis left.

If I'd married the number of women I was supposed to have been engaged to, I'd have a bigger harem than Suleiman bin Daoud.

If I had pupped the number of women I was supposed to have been engaged to, I would have more bastards than Barnado's.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 09:15 AM

Well, well.

Perhaps people following this thread can help with

This one

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 09 Mar 10 - 08:37 AM

Richard in Manchester -

Thank you for this. It was indeed the Bakers Vaults, and I am almost certain that it was a 'Singaround - y' sort of meeting, and again almost certain that it was hosted by Gray, Bri and Bob. I remember them doing Tom Paxton's

'Zoo' song ; great versions of

"I had a cat and the cat loved me
And the cat went fiddle- eye - fee" ;

"Goober Peas" ;

and Bob, giving it "Ship in the Sky". This would be around '65, 66 perhaps.

I seem to remember a FC out at Hollinwood, near Marconi's, and 'Sandra' singing Mick Softley's 'Working Life' ; as well as a 'Blues' duo on the Stockport scene, 'Leo and Geek', who did an amazing version of 'Candy Man' ;

not to mention Joe Harrison, from whom I learned the words of the Big Ballad 'King Henry V's Invasion of France', to a tune reminiscent of 'Doffing Mistress', or the Frank Duffy (RIP) version of 'The Beggar Wench'.

There was a FC out at Brinnington which I played a few times, (in either a Liberal Club or a WMC) run by a chap called 'Bren' (I assume, contraction of Brendan) ;

and I recall a duo but can only remember one name : Ralph de Berry, who designed the cover for Rosemary Hardman's first album 'Queen of Hearts'.

I have a copy still, but whether it would still play is a matter for conjecture.

Any word at all about 'Big' John MacAtee ?

(It should be understood that my memory might well be faulty : I am well over pensionable age and now in a wheelchair pending surgery. I blame years of dancing the Morris.)

Before I forget : back to the first FC I ever went to in God's Little Acre, at Old Moat Conservative Club, Withington. Eventually I became a resident, along with Paul Levine, an American lady, Ellie ; a brother and sister duo -

very tall people - he played a Hofner archtop with a plectrum - they were the first I ever heard sing the "Mingulay Boat Song".

Frank Duffy played "the Moat", as it became known ; as did Harry Boardman ; Terry Griffiths ; Mike (Meic) Stevens ; Ian Chisholm ; Barney Dooney ; Maurice Walsh (solo) and an incredibly gifted Flamenco guitarist

who went under the name of "El Ron", until he IMO f*ucked things up by trying to sing.


Regulars included Irene C ; John C ; Martin C (RIP) ; Denize C, whom your correspondent 'copped off' with ; C P Lee ; and as I remember, the bar served a fair drop of Doctor Robinson's Patent Medicine.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 09 Mar 10 - 10:25 AM

hi paul

I remember Al Lawrence well from other venues.

Anyone know what happened to Al? I think originally he was from the Isle of Man.

Cheers

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 09 Mar 10 - 10:55 AM

Mike

You are correct - Al Lawrence was originally from the Isle of Man. I sang in a duo with him in the 70s, until he moved back there. I still see him occasionally when he comes over here - last time was for my wife Kath's 60th birthday party last year.

He's still performing with his band The Stationary Wilberries - love the name! See http://manxman.ch/moodle/ and http://www.youtube.com/user/manxli

His daughters Kirsty and Katie are also excellent musicians - see http://www.myspace.com/kirstyandkatielawrence

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,andyval
Date: 09 Mar 10 - 12:02 PM

Yes I know it is in Saddleworth and not Greater Manchester but I've not seen a mention of the delightful Grotton Hotel where Brian Knowles ran a club in the late sixties. We used to go there religiously as under-age drinkers. Thanks to that introduction coupled with Baz Reade's 'Top House' club at Dobcross I've had to cope with being a folkie for over 40 years.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 09 Mar 10 - 02:29 PM

Hi Paul

Many thanks for the information about Al.

It is great to hear that he is still playing. The clip you sent of Al was a little short so I couldn't get to see very much.

I got to know him quite well. He used to play lots of different stuff.
I remember him learning to play The Entertainer and played it solo many times because everyone was knocked out by his playing.

I also remember I was at that time doing a song called either I Just Can't Wait or sometimes The Apprentice Song. This was because Harvey Andrews on his Album called it one thing and Ian Campbell who wrote it called it another.

After I had done it one night Al asked me for the lyrics and I gave them to him but I never heard him do it....as we went our separate ways about then.

Ah memories......

Thanks Paul

Cheers

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Ringer
Date: 09 Mar 10 - 03:52 PM

I think it was The Exiles of Erin, Bryn. It was not a pretentious pub.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 10 Mar 10 - 05:10 AM

Aye, well, Ringer - age and ill health might have clouded my memory. I only ever heard it referred to in the spoken word.

Eireann or Erin, it was still an ace place.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Colin in Tytherington, Macclesfield
Date: 18 Mar 10 - 03:27 PM

Illman Riley were Eric Crowther and Eric Bottomley. I knew Eric Crowther and his brother Graham when I lived in Middleton, near Rochdale. I used to drink on a Sunday lunch time in the Lancashire Fold, which was Eric's local in those days, occasionally Eric Bottomley would call in for a game of darts.

Those were the days.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 18 Mar 10 - 04:15 PM

Thanks Colin. Eric Bottomley - I remember him now.

A couple of clubs that haven't had much of a mention were those run by Jack and Mavis Lee - firstly at the Kingsway in Rochdale and then at the Fisherman's Inn next to Hollingworth Lake in Littleborough. I remember some great nights at both of them, and Jack could raise forgetting his words into an art form!

Jack and Mavis still run a Country and Western club, every Thursday in Heywood - see http://www.folkimages.com/hobo/index.html. There's a great picture of Jack looking happy on the "Welcome" page!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: maggi
Date: 18 Mar 10 - 07:49 PM

I'll add an early 1980s Martin Carthy gig at The Seymour. It's demolished now, but stood at the junction of Upper Chorlton Road and Seymour Grove. No idea who ran the club/session.

I'd gone for a pint in the vault, but was a bit bored with the company I was in, so went to see the turn :-)

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 19 Mar 10 - 04:37 AM

I think it was organised by Mike and Maggie Billington, who also fronted the Folk Programme on Radio Manchester. He currently plays in the ceilidh Band Madcap, who are excellent, and still lives in Chorlton. Maggie now lives in Skye

L in C

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,harvey andrews
Date: 19 Mar 10 - 10:45 AM

MikeL2...I never recorded the Ian Campbell song "I just can't wait" /"The Apprentice song". You've mixed it up with one of mine I think.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 19 Mar 10 - 11:16 AM

Hi Harvey

How are you. Great to hear from here.

I am sorry if I got mixed up with I just can't wait.....I was sure it was you I heard sing it.

Must be my rapidly advancing age....lol

I also used to do Hey Sandy but I never go the impact from that great track that you did.

Nice to hear from you.

All the best

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,harvey andrews
Date: 19 Mar 10 - 04:06 PM

It happens!
Actually I have an invitation to attend the 40th anniversary ( is that the right word?) of the shootings at Kent State university
to perform "Hey Sandy". Unfortunately I have other contracted commitments. However, it means a lot to me that the song has survived and still resonates.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 20 Mar 10 - 06:08 AM

hi harvey

Many thanks for you comments.

It's a pity that your schedule prevents you from attending Kent State University.

I think that Hey Sandy has more than survived. It has become etched into music as a powerful statement.

The arrangement is powerful and descriptive and screams out the emotion of the story.

This thread reminded me dig out the Writer of Songs Album.

I realise now that I was confusing I Just Can't Wait with your " Unaccompanied". " Now thank you for the gold watch sir, the silver collection too".......

I would recommend anyone here to try it. They will not be disappointed.

Kind Regards

MikeL2

..

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,MikeL2
Date: 20 Mar 10 - 06:16 AM

Hi harvey

Sod's law applied when I pressed ENTER before typing the line from unaccompanied that I confused with the other song that I was comparing....

It should read.." The thirties are a memory for Dad again
He tells me it can never be that bad again
But from Jarrow and from Clyde they come.............."

Apologies

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Mick Collins
Date: 05 Apr 10 - 03:51 PM

HI John B,a quick update Tony Downes plays banjo/guitar with The Hometowners along with Kevin Clarke, Pete Macmillan, and myself.Every couple of Months we run a Concert at Uppermill Conservative Club Saddleworth, last year we booked Jack Lee,and also Mike Canavan,what a great night we had,a full house with everybody singing the chorus,just like old times brilliant. great to hear from you take care, Mick Collins

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Tally Ho Man
Date: 07 Apr 10 - 07:50 AM

Paul Reade.
Good to meet you Paul down at the new Sale Folk Club last night. It put a face to the name! Mark Taylor.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 07 Apr 10 - 08:46 AM

Hi Mark

It was good to meet you as well. It was a great night at Sale!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Tally Ho Man
Date: 07 Apr 10 - 10:54 AM

I should have said good to meet you both!

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 07 Apr 10 - 12:31 PM

Anyone remember the Church Inn in Prestwich? I seem to think the organiser was George Purcell, and they had some great residents such as Barry Oates, Graham Walker, Pete ? and John Cartain, who went on to form Redmayne.

Barry Oates wrote some great songs such as "Mild and Bitter Days" which I think was actually about the Church Inn. Anyone know what happened to him?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Ian Hendrie
Date: 07 Apr 10 - 01:19 PM

I'm intrigued by the song 'Mild and Bitter Days' and would like to find the lyrics etc.

I'll start a new thread for this.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: JohnB
Date: 08 Apr 10 - 11:05 AM

My wife used to frequent the Church Inn FC in Prestwich, I was there a couple of times when we were "going out".
She wouldn't know what happened to anyone though as we have lived in Canada since 1977.

Hi Mick, we stayed with Lorraine (Tony's ex) and Bob in Vancouver when we were there about four years ago, your name came up then too.
Glad to hear you are still playing and Tony too.
JohnB

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Apr 10 - 10:52 AM

Most Certainly I remember "The Four Folk!" My brother-in-law was Ash Lawrence who played the mouth organ..they made a a great LP which has since been converted, (through the family into a CD) It still sounds wonderful..such nostalgia.. including streaming eyes from all the smoke! Helen V

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,John in Southampton
Date: 30 Apr 10 - 07:49 PM

Used to go to the Duke of York in Eccles every Friday night (1969 through early seventies)
Great atmosphere, good quality guest singers: Mike Harding, Ted Edwards, Beggarmen, Marie Little, Bernard Wrigley, Saraband, Dave and June Brooks etc.
They had a great host singer (believe he used to work on the buses) who did fantastic covers of Jonothan Kelly songs. Especially the "ballad of cursed anna" and "Madelleine"
Remember them launching "Guantlet" beer, impressive mailed fist bar totem, but tasted total c**p.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ged Wilmot
Date: 03 May 10 - 12:55 PM

Hi all,

Pete Wilmot was my Dad - I was just doing a search on Google for the Wellgreen Folk Club and this thread came up.

I am delighted that some of you remember him - I was not fortunate enough to be able to see him at work, but obviously those of you that remember him, do so fondly.

I just wanted to post a message to say that Pete passed away on Tuesday 27th April, and his funeral will be this Thursday 6th May, 12.30pm at St Wilfrid's Church in Northwich, Cheshire.

I am not in contact with any of his old friends from the folk club days, but if any of you are, or would like to attend yourself, then please do.

Dad always looked back on his folk-singing days with such happiness, and it would be great to meet any of you that knew him.

Ged

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 03 May 10 - 02:54 PM

Hi Ged

I am so sorry to hear about your father. Pete was a special man....all who knew him will miss him as I will.

I knew him quite well.

I knew him from the Wellgreen and from the Kersal Rugby club days where he ran folk clubs with the likes of Tony & Arthur and Cheshire Folk.

I will try to make it to the funeral if I possibly can

My best thoughts go out to you and your whole family.

Kind Regards

Mike

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ged Wilmot
Date: 03 May 10 - 05:38 PM

Mike,

Thanks for your reply - it would be lovely to meet you, and anyone else that knew him. As I mentioned above, I was too young to appreciate his love of music at that time, and to hear anything about his past means so much to us. This is the only place I have posted - my mum tells me that he knew Tony & Arthur well, as well as the Houghton Weavers, Cheshire Folk, etc, but I have not had the opportunity (nor would know how) to contact them.

Hope to see you on Thursday if you are able to make it - please introduce yourself to me (I'm his oldest son with the blond spikey hair!) and you can tell us more of what you remember.

Kind regards,

Ged

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Garry Nevin
Date: 03 May 10 - 06:30 PM

Greetings All,
hardly a mention of The Eagle And Child Folk Club, Whitefield Manchester. Upstairs on a Sunday night, it was the highlight of me and my dads week, hardly missed any of the early meets. Would love to hear from anyone who used to attend. First heard Bouncing Billy Barker by Tony Hill, a lovely chap...The old memory has lost the names of many who used to attend and run the club, but wonderful nights, well complemented with pints of beautiful Holts' mild.....!
Remember..?
Kind Regards,
Garry Nevin
Picton New Zealand

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Paul Reade
Date: 04 May 10 - 04:31 AM

Sorry to hear about Pete Wilmot. I was one of the regulars at the Wellgreen and remember some excellent nights there. There was always good-natured banter between Pete and Tony and Arthur which made it a great club.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 04 May 10 - 09:54 AM

Hi ged

I hope to able to make it. I have something on that morning that I think will finish in time to be there.

With regard to your mentioning Cheshire Folk, Tony & Arthur and The Houghton Weavers. I knew all them well.

Tony unfortunately died some years ago. Arthur is still performing- in Bollington I believe.

The I knew Norman Prince well when he was with The Auld Triangle. He left and he and I were friends as he was forming the Houghton Weavers.
There is much about them on Google if you wish to look to see what they achieved. They are still going though Norman left some time back to devote more time to broadcasting on radio.

I haven't seen or heard from Cheshire Folk but I am trying to contact somebody to inform them of the sad news. I am sure they would want to know as they were very close to your father back then.

cheers

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: David el Gnomo
Date: 04 May 10 - 11:35 AM

Paul Reade - John Cartain is still very much on the 'scene' and performing a lot with Steve Chatterley as well as various incarnations of 'The hands and feet roadshow' or the massed bands of Hands in pockets and feet in mouths! I think the Church at Prestwich is where a young Martin Hall first appeared many years ago before being in Jolly Jack with Alan taylor and the late lamented Dave Weatherall.

John in Southampton - Was the singer you remember Frank Hughes? I don't remember him being on the buses but he was a gardener for the local council for many years. He did, and still does, splendid versions of "Ballad of cursed Anna" and "Madelleine". A founder member of Swinton Folk Club and, after a long absence, now a regular attendee and resident performer.

Cheers

DeG

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 04 May 10 - 12:41 PM

Mike et.al. if you're trying to contact the Cheshire Folk, Ken Thomson (ex member) manages Hobgoblin above the Johnny Roadhouse shop on Oxford Road in Manchester. You should get Arthur (Wakefield) from the 'phone book. He lives on Clarence Road.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 04 May 10 - 02:08 PM

Many thanks for your help - I have now emailed Ken Thompson and Arthur Wakefield.

Ged

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 04 May 10 - 02:16 PM

Hi ray

Thanks for the information.

I have not seen Ken for many years. I once spent a rather drunken evening at his house in Alderley Edge. Is he still performing? I had heard that he was working in maintaining and making musical instruments so I am not surprised that he is at Hobgoblin..

I see Ged is trying to contact both Ken & Arthur.

many Thanks

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 04 May 10 - 03:00 PM

Hi Mike
The last time I called in to see Ken he was having a day off but I ran into an old mate who had also called to see him so the journey wasn't wasted. So far as I know, he is still playing but he no longer lives in Alderley Edge - I think the place has been taken over by footballers! - someone told me he was living on a canal boat. I understand he plays with Jeoff Higinbottom - I've not seen Jeoff for years.
Ray

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST
Date: 04 May 10 - 07:36 PM

bob morton is alive and,well...hmmm doing ok??

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 05 May 10 - 06:20 AM

Hi Ray

Thanks for the info. These days I do a lot of walking along the canals ....nice and flat for tired old legs....lol

haven't come across Ken but then again I wasn't aware that he was on a boat. I will ask around and try to surprise him.

cheers

MikeL

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Geoff Woodhead, Sydney Australia
Date: 21 May 10 - 04:12 AM

I was a member of The Union Folk for quite a few years. I knew Bob Morton through Hale Barns Cricket Club as we played there together - I played bass in another band then & when Edgar Thompson moved to run a pub in Wigan, Bob & Ken Greenhough invited me to join the Unions. We ran a club at The Durham Ox in Congleton, then at The Bulls Head in Hale Barns but the halcyon days were at The Malt Shovels in Alty, a pub run by the legendary Laurie Renton. So many great guests over the years including Christy Moore & Jimmy Faulkner, John James, John Kirkpatrick & Sue Harris - the list goes on but also a fantastic supportive & loyal audience & plenty of great floor singers. Some great characters in the band too, Bob & Ken of course but also the great Ken Scott & Frank O'Reilly plus Steve Naylor in later years
I have lived here since 1986 & didn't play for many years but am now a member of The Wheeze & Suck Band - five 50-something ex-Poms who should know better - check us out at www.wheezeandsuck.com .
I well remember Susie Stockton - hi Susie & anyone else out there that remembers me.
I was very close to Bob Morton & his death was very sad & a great shock but I had the great pleasure of catching up with him in June 2007 over a few jars at The Railway in Hale where there were reminiscences a-plenty.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Geoff Woodhead, Sydney, Australia
Date: 21 May 10 - 04:20 AM

Very remiss of me to forget (must be the age) our terrific fiddler, Martin Dutton who used to make the trek over the Pennines from his wonderful old house in Yorkshire to play with us as often as possible.
I was first introduced to folk clubs via the one at Kersal Rugby Club which then moved to the Wellgreen in Hale which really suited me as we lived round the corner in Briony Avenue - very strong memories of Tony & Arthur & Pete Wilmot - T&A used to sing Pete Coe's song "The Wizard of Alderley Edge" which is now very much part of our live shows.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 29 May 10 - 11:54 AM

I understand that Ken Scott is no longer with us - last saw him on the ferry between Hollyhead and DunLoghaire. I assume that most will know that Tony Hardman (T&A) was killed in a climbing accident back in the 80's. I've a feeling that there was more than one Bob Morton - which one are we talking about?

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Bill S from Melbourne
Date: 30 May 10 - 05:01 AM

Maybe start a list of pubs which didn't have a folk club. The Lord Nelson in Gorton used to have a session after Morris which somehow got into the MEN folk listing so we moved elsewhere. I seem to remember also a club at the Gateway in Didsbury.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 30 May 10 - 05:32 AM

"the Gateway in Didsbury"

I saw The Albion Band there. It was run by Annie & Terry Morris. After they left The White Swan in Fallowfield she moved the club to The Lloyds in Chorlton then to The Gateway

L in C#

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: MikeL2
Date: 30 May 10 - 06:01 AM

hi bill

I must remember you as you have moved around in the same circles as me.

I hvae known many of the names you mention for many years.
Some unfortunately no longer with us. (Pete Wilmot's recent sad passing was reported here a few weeks back.).

I used to go to the Maltshovels - my Uncle & Aunt were landlords there at one time.

My wife is a good friend of Ken Scott's wife and we had many happy times with them. I too played cricket for Hale Barns as a junior but I think that was before you and Bob Morton.

I was a member of Kersal Rugby Club when Pete Wilmot opened the Folk nights there.

I still see ken Greenhough around as he comes into Northwich sometimes.

He is still playing - I think he is now with a band called Calico Jack.

Fond memories indeed....

Best Wishes

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: doncatterall
Date: 30 May 10 - 07:22 PM

"Annie & Terry Morris"

Best wishes to them wherever they be

Adlington MM danced at their wedding and I remember a 90 mph dash down the A34 to get there by some of us who had spent the previous night carousing at a ceilidh in Uppermill.

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 31 May 10 - 06:19 AM

They moved to Harrogate then to Stoke - i think that was where Annie started out

L in C#

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: GUEST,Peter STockport
Date: 31 May 10 - 07:54 PM

The Gateway
One of the last of the really great folk clubs in Manchester.
It was still running in the 90s. Flook, Brass Monkey,Albion Band to name a few . There's not many clubs of that stature- Annie would book new and old, I really miss Annie and the Gateway. We started the Midway to try and book some of those great acts!
Shes still running a club in Stoke of course!
peter

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Les in Chorlton
Date: 01 Jun 10 - 08:40 AM

Annie seems to be associated with this club

L in C#

Subject: RE: Folk Clubs, Greater Manchester 1960-99
From: Llanfair
Date: 02 Jun 10 - 05:26 AM

I've had a lovely time reading this thread. I don't get much computer time these days. I was so sad to read of Pete Wilmot's death, as I used to go to the Old Hall in Altrincham and the Maltshovels.

MSG and Harry Boardman's club in the '60's I soaked it all up, and learned lots of songs to sing. I never mastered more than 4 chords on the guitar! I saw loads of the people mentioned in this thread, and met Bryn and Paul....hiya, Paul, how are you? and lots of others.

It was a very special time, and I've just remembered that i've got a few reel to reel tapes that were recorded at the Old Hall. I know Pete and Tony and Arthur are on there, Lord knows who else.

I was known as Bronwen Pugh in those days.