Recollections  -  Entertainment

Clubs and Discos

Recollections 1-100                       Recollections 101 onwards  (this page)

Recollections

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

The Carnaby Set

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

The Carnaby Set

Maureen Wallace
Rosyth, Fife, Scotland

The Berkley

Mike Marwick
New Town, Edinburgh

Radio

Bands from the 1960s

Gerald J Robertson

The Pali

Top Rank Club

Top Storey Club

Magoos

Bill Anderson
Edinburgh

Tiny and the Titans

David Welsh
Victoria, London

Encyclopaedia

Boston Dexters

The Athenians and The Beatstalkers

Jim McGregor
Caledonia, Ontario, Canada

The Berkeley

Jim McGregor
Caledonia, Ontario, Canada

Grafton Club

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

Boston Dexters

The Athenians

The Beatstalkers

Jim McGregor
Caledonia, Ontario, Canada

Penthouse, Bandwagon, Chase

Bruce Welsh
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Three's A Crowd

Stuart Lyon
Blackford, Edinburgh

The Athenians

Stuart McAister

The Scimitors

Gordon Rule
Edinburgh

Pied Piper Cafe

John Cairns
South of France

Lads from Bedford Street

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

Dancing - Advert in the Press, 1960s

Brian Waugh

The Athenians

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

Trad Jazz, 2011

Charles Bowler
Cape Town, South Africa

International Club

Tandem

Mimics Showband

Gordon Mackett
Leith, Edinburgh

Top Storey

Jimmy Tennant

Toto McNaughton

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

Empire Theatre

  -  The Crew Cuts

Palais de Dance

  -  Ray Ellington

Lina
Edinburgh

Fayne & The Cruisers

Margaret Ballentyne

Fayne & The Cruisers

Norma Cullen Sinclair
Newington, Edinburgh

Fayne & The Cruisers

Allister Hughes
Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland

The Mimics Show Band

Neil Macdonald
Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland

East Fountainbridge

High Street

Lothian Road

Allister Hughes
Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland

The Mimics Show Band

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

The Berkeley

Tony Brown
Southsea, Hampshire, England

The Place

Food

Patricia Gallagher
Australia

Sneaky Pete's

Stewart Connelly
West Highlands, Scotland

Sneaky Pete's

-  Answer:  Nips o' Brandy

Patricia Gallagher
Australia

John Gray
Stenhouse, Edinburgh

East Fountainbridge

-  The White Elephant

-  The Muscular Arms

Lothian Road

-  Pipers

Neil Lawrence
Fountainbridge, Edinburgh

Sneaky Pete's

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

White Elephant

Mike Crean
Dorking, Surrey, England

Boston Dexters

The Crusaders

1970s

Angela Downie
(nee Lancashire)
Dorking, Surrey, England

Clubs outside Edinburgh

Ian Kennedy
London, England

The Sapphires

Venues

Remember Us?

Bob Jenkins
London, England

The International Club

Allister Hughes
Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland

The Mimics Show Band

Simon Swan
Edinburgh

'Edinburgh Gig Archive' web site

Simon Clegg
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Coasters Roller Disco

Ian Young
Hawick, Borders, Scotland

Saunders Street Concert

-  'Writing on the Wall'

Malcolm Robertson
Sighthill, Edinburgh

Found under the Floor Boards

Margaret Burns
near Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland

Afternoons

-  Oasis Club

Evenings

-  Franco's or The Iron Trap

Norrie Bishop
Edinburgh

Dance Hall, opposite McGoos

Robert Laird
Longstone, Edinburgh

Casablanca Disco

John Alexander
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Casablanca Disco

Plastic Meringue

Plastic Meringue Reunion

John Alexander
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Plastic Meringue

John Alexander
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Ealy-1960s

    -  Bungies

    -  Other Clubs and Cafes

Lynda Wright
Australia

The International Club

    -  The Owner

    -  My Dad

    -  Manager and Bouncers

    -  Bands

Jack Hawkins

Barry Sinclair

Maureen Hogg
Cape Town, South Africa

Barry Sinclair

Frank Ferri
Newhaven, Edinburgh

Jimmy Cruickshank

Mel Roccio

The International

Stuart Davie
East Lothian, Scotland

Three's A Crowd

David KING
Trinity, Edinburgh

Fire Island

Liz TORRES
Melbourne, Florida, USA

The Roccio Family

-  Christmas

-  The Shop

-  The Nash

James ALEXANDER
Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Clouds

Ghoulz
Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland

Bands at Kinema Ballroom Dunfermline

Christie ('Mama Christie')
San Diego, California, USA

Robert 'Smiggy' Smith

Janette Burden
(nee Drinan)
Broomhouse, Edinburgh

Sanders at McGoos

Alan Guthrie

'The Images'

'This and That'

The 1960s

Newspaper Cuttings

Book

Recollections

101.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Frank Ferri's band in Edinburgh in the mid-1960s was 'The Jokers'.

Here, Frank explains what happened to the group.

Frank wrote:

'The Carnaby Set'

formerly 'The Jokers'

     ©

"The Jokers split up and were re-formed as The Carnaby Set in 1966.  The line-up of The Carnaby Set then was (left to right):

-  Johnni Laidlaw (lead guitar)

-  Unknown (bas guitar)

-  Derek Hodge (drums)

-  Charlie McDonald (rhythm guitar)

-   **

The group only lasted just over a year before packing up for good.  Johnny Laidlaw went solo as a cabaret act under the name of Johnny Rainbow, before moving on to become Entertainment Manager on passenger liners."

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  January 31, 2011

** = and Frank Ferri, vocalist.  See below.

Frank Ferri

     ©

Frank Ferri tells me that he continued to be vocalist and band manager after The Jokers re-formed as The Carnaby Set.  (The photo above of Frank was taken about ten years earlier.)

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  February 8, 2011

Recollections

102.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Frank Ferri added:

Fairley's

"I took this photo from the car park of what is now Giuliano's Italian restaurant. Then (1966) it was known as 'Fairley's of Leith'.

'The Carnaby Set'

    ©

They did cabaret shows and dancing at the time. We were resident there for a spell.  On the day this photo was taken, we had been rehearsing in the afternoon

In the background is "Kings Wark" pub next to the derelict building now "Pizza Express."

Water of Leith

"You will note how low the water in river is.  The Water of Leitht must have still been tidal then, before docks lock gates built at Leith Harbour.

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  February 8, 2011

Recollections

103.

Maureen Wallace

Rosyth, Fife, Scotland

Thank you to Maureen Wallace for replying to the message about The Berkeley from Kenny Bell in 'Recollections 60'.

Maureen wrote:

The Berkeley

"I was just reminded of the Berkeley on Lothian  Road after watching Reggae Britannia  on channel 4  tonight.

The Berkeley  was  at the bottom of Lothian Road.  I went there a few times in the early-1970s with my  friend, Christine, as it played nothing but West Indian imports on a juke box wired to speakers.

We were 2 little white teenage girls in a mainly black  dance club  treated with nothing but respect  and loved to dance. There was nowhere else like it at the time.  Everyone  clicked their  fingers when dancing  so you could dance to the beat with the clicks."

I aways remember Christine had a little MGB GT  soft-top  in those days , and we travelled all over and went out dancing regularly  to most of the clubs in Edinburgh and  Fife.

The  Berkley was a place that had a few name changes in the 1970s.  I don't recall exact date it closed. I would have been about 19 at the time.

Maureen Wallace, Rosyth, Fife, Scotland:  February 12+13, 2011

Recollections

104.

Mike Marwick

New Town, Edinburgh

Thank you to Mike Marwick, who wrote:

Radio

"I've worked in radio for around 40 years, including, in Scotland:

-  SAGA.

-  Smooth.

I still deliver a weekly programme at 6pm on Saturdays, under the title 'Rock & Roll Saturday'.  It's broadcast via broadband from Fife on Celtic Radio to a host of stations, including:

-  Heartland.

-  Celtic Music.

-  Radio Glasgow.

-  Leith FM.

-  Argyll FM.

'Rock & Roll Saturday' has its own facebook page."

Bands from 1960s?

"In the past, 'Rock & Roll Saturday' has included Scottish bands from the 1960s:

-  Athenians

-  Studio Six

-  Avengers

-  Golden Crusaders

-  etc.

When I included these, back in the SAGA days, the response was instant.  There was local contact and enthusiasm, and copies of rare 45s by Edinburgh/Glasgow bands were sent in to me, to be broadcast on the programme.

I would be happy to hear from anyone who has any old records of  Scottish bands from the 1960s.

Mike Marwick, New Town, Edinburgh:  February 9, 2011

Reply to Mike

If you have any old Scottish band records from the 1960s, or would like to contact Mike with any other messages about the 1960s scene, please email me, then I'll pass on his email address to you.

Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  February 16, 2011

Recollections

105.

Gerald J Robertson

Thank you to Gerald J Robertson who wrote:

The Pali

"My first experience of disco dancing was at the Pali on a Saturday afternoon.  I was 12.  I am now 61."

Top Rank Club

"I went to a disco in South Clerk Street.  It was part of the Odeon Cinema and was known as the Top Rank Club.

The resident band that I can remember was Jimmy James and the vagabonds."

Top Storey Club

"There was a band that played regularly at the Top Storey Club. They were called Tiny and the Titans.  Who did they become? Prize:  a fourpit oh tatties.  lol."

Magoos

Questions

"I went to Magoos in the mid-1960s.  I am trying to remember what the name of the club was across the road from Magoos, down one of the side streets.  It was not up to much.  As I recall, it was in a cellar.

I lived in Magoos at the weekend.  On holiday weekends, you used to get a rubber stamp on the back of the hand so that you could go out to feed up at the chippie just past the Tron gate.  What was the name of the disco above the chippie?"

Gerald J Robertson:  February 25 + 26, 2011

Recollections

106.

Bill Anderson

Edinburgh

Thank you to Bill Anderson who replied to Gerald J Robertson's comments about the Top Storey Club in Recollections 105 above.

Bill wrote:

Tiny and the Titans

"The band, Tiny and the Titans, played around 1967/8 and in around 1968 changed their name to Reflections.

Reflections went on to appear In Opportunity Knocks in the early 1970s.  Colin Chisholm ended up being the lead singer in Bilbo Baggins who were the other band managed by Tam've added t Paton."

Bill Anderson, Edinburgh:  March 6, 2011

Recollections

107.

Bruce Welsh

Thank you to Bruce Welsh who wrote:

Boston Dexters

"I am presently writing an encyclopaedia of 1960s UK groups. Groups being included in this book are those that had at least one single out between 1962 and 1966."

Boston Dexters

"On another web site, I saw John Turnbull mentioned as having been with the Boston Dexters before he and fellow Dexter Tam White went on to form The Buzz. 

But John is not mentioned by Frank Ferri on this page on the EdinPhoto web site about the Gonk Club at Tollcross.  I wonder if Frank remembers John Turnbull."

The Athenians and The Beatstalkers

"I am also seeking information on The Athenians and The Beatstalkers who are going to be included in the book.  Does anyone know anything about these bands?"

Bruce Welsh: March 10, 2011

Reply to Bruce

I have passed on Bruce's question about Boston Dexters to Frank Ferri.  I don't know whether or not the other two groups that Bruce mentions ever played in Edinburgh.

If you have any information that you'd like to pass on to Bruce, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to him.    Thank you.

Peter Stubbs:  March 13, 2011

Update

Frank has now replied.  See Recollections 110 below.

Peter Stubbs:  March 15, 2011

Recollections

108.

Jim McGregor

Caledonia, Ontario, Canada

Thank you to Jim McGregor who replied:

The Berkeley

"The Berkeley became two different spots in the late-1970s / 1980s:

-  Upstairs:  Harvey's Restaurant

-  Downstairs:  Piper's Cabaret

Both were run by the late Brian Waldman and Peter Williamson, Edinburgh's main man at the time."

Jim McGregor, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada:  March 13, 2011

Recollections

109.

Jim McGregor

Caledonia, Ontario, Canada

The Grafton Club at Tollcross was last mentioned by Eric Gold in Recollections 81.

Here, Jim McGregor tells a little more about the club Thank you to Jim who wrote:

The Grafton

"I knew the people and the scene in Edinburgh in the 1970s and 1980s pretty well.   I remember Peter Williamson.  He was a very nice man.

The Grafton Club would have become The Penthouse, run by:

-  Tam Hughes and

-  Jim Logan

My understanding of those times is that Peter Williamson would have been associated with:

-  Victor Gold  (bookmaker)

-  Buggy Thomson  (businessman) and

-  John Paddy Reilly (JPR), an extremely well known businessman"

Jim McGregor, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada:  March 13, 2011

Recollections

110.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Thank you to Frank Ferri who replied to Bruce Welsh's questions in Recollections 107 above.

Frank wrote:

Boston Dexters

"I knew former members of the Boston Dexters:

-  Tam White

-  Toto McNaughton (deceased)

-  Frankie Connors (living in London)

 but I can't recall John Turnbull.

The Athenians

"The Athenians were a brilliant band at covering Rolling Stones' music.  They were resident for a long time at the Gamp club on Victoria Terrace, before splitting up.

-  Ian Orr was vocalist

-  Ally Black was on bass.

I can't recall the names of the others.  They cut a record.  I remember that one track was Chuck Berry's 'Little Queenie'."

The Beatstalkers

"I remember  the Beatstalkers, but not the line up.  They were Edinburgh-based."

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  March 14, 2011

Recollections

111.

Jim McGregor

Caledonia, Ontario, Canada

Thank you to Jim McGregor for writing again.  Here is an extract from the message that Jim sent to me:

Penthouse,  Bandwagon, Chase

"I grew up in Gorgie and spent many happy years in some fine pubs and clubs.  Most notable, in those days, would be the Penthouse in Tollcross and Bandwagon in Frederick Street.

The Penthouse, Bandwagon and  Chase nightclub in  Bonnyrigg were all owned by a partnership of individuals who had worked for the bookie, Harrower, and had received some time at Her Majesty's pleasure. Upon their release these three premises were all born."

Jim McGregor, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada:  March 15, 2011

Recollections

112.

Bruce Welsh

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Thank you to Bruce Welsh who wrote:

Three's a Crowd

"I'm trying to find information about a group called 'Three's a Crowd'.  All  I know is that they were a trio to begin with, then a quartet.

Bob Smiggy Smith was their lead vocalist.  He had previously been with The Embers. The group had one single out in 1966 'Look Around The Corner’ b/w ‘Living In A Dream'.

Apparently their bass player, Jimmy Bain, is still playing today.  Does anybody know of them?

Bruce Welsh, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada:  April 4, 2011

Reply to Bruce?

If you know anything about this group, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Bruce.

Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  April 7, 2011

Recollections

113.

Stuart Lyon

Blackford, Edinburgh

Thank you to Stuart Lyon for replying to the question that  Mike Marwick asked in 'Recollections 104' above.

Stuart wrote:

The Athenians

"Ally Black, who I believe played lead guitar in The Athenians, now owns the Shapes Furniture and Auction business here in Edinburgh."

Stuart Lyon, Blackford, Edinburgh:  April 9, 2011

Recollections

114.

Stuart McAlister

Thank you to Stuart McAlister who wrote:

The Scimitors

"I used to live at 182 Boswall Parkway.  We had a ban called .The Scimitors' in the 1960s.  Pet Elison was the guitarist, and we practiced in the hall of St Margaret Mary's Church in Boswall Parkway."

Stuart McAlister:  April 13, 2011

Recollections

115.

Gordon Rule

Edinburgh

Thank you to Gordon Rule who wrote:

Pied Piper Cafe

"I am amazed that after trawling through all the recollections of clubs and cafes that I can find absolutely no mention of The Pied Piper Cafe which operated in the early-1960s and closed around 1965 to become a building society.

This was in Charlotte Street, very close to Princes street at the West End and was a hugely popular meeting place, mostly at the weekends, before going to parties and clubs, especially the Gamp and Place.

There was such a wide circle of  people from all walks  of life who met up there to socialise and enjoy themselves. As a testament to how popular  it was,  when it closed, it  still did not stop people meeting outside the cafe with often some 50 or so, all congregating on the pavement.

This went on for about a year before it finally tailed off and people found other places to go.

I would be delighted to hear from anyone who used to frequent The Pied Piper."

Gordon Rule, Edinburgh:  April 13, 2011

Recollections

116.

John Cairns

South of France

Thank you to John Cairns for posting a message in the EdinPhoto guestbook.

John wrote:

Lads from Bedford Street

"Does anyone remember a bunch of lads from Bedford Street, Stockbridge? They were all friends of Ned Munro who, in turn, introduced them to me.

They were a fantastic  bunch of lads.  We visited the Palais, in Fountainbridge, and the Top Storey Club with them.  I spent New Year 1964/65 with them.  I'll never forget them."

John Cairns, South of France:  Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book:  April 17, 2011

Recollections

117.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Frank Ferri wrote:

Dance

"Here is an advert that appeared in the press, in the 1960s."

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  April 20, 2011

Recollections

118.

Brian Waugh

Thank you to Brian Waugh who wrote, regarding 'Recollections 110' above:

The Athenians

"The Athenians' line-up was:

-  Ricky Alcorn             Bass Guitar

-  Ally Black                  Lead Guitar

-  Keith Henderson     Rhythm Guitar

-  Arthur McKay           Drums

-  Ian Orr                        Singer"

The Beatstalkers

"As far as I can remember, 'The Beatstalkers' were a group from Glasgow."

Brian Waugh:  May 11+16, 2011

Recollections

119.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Frank Ferri wrote:

Jazz NIght

"We have arranged another big jazz night, for June 17, 2011,  Tickets are on sale at the bar, Leith Dockers' Club.

Here is a poster for the event."

©  Reproduced with acknowledgement to Frank Ferri,
 Newhaven, Edinburgh June 9, 2011

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  May 9, 2011

Recollections

120.

Charles Bowler

Cape Town, South Africa

Thank you to Charlie Bowler who wrote:

International Club

"I remember the night the Nash (The International Club) burnt down.  I was playing there that night with a band called 'Badge'.  We played on the top floor and the place was packed, even on the stairways.

It was definitely a fire hazard!!"

Tandem

"Do you remember a band called 'Tandem',  one of Tom Paton's bands?"

Mimics Showband

"I joined up with two of the guys, Alan Paterson and Brian Flockhart, in 1974 to form the 'Mimics Showband'.  We went on to win 'Search for a Star' in 1975. Tom Paton was one of the judges!

The "Mimics" went on to UK and international success."

Charles Bowler, Cape Town, South Africa:  May 15, 2011

Recollections

121.

Gordon Mackett

Leith, Edinburgh

Thank you to Gordon Mackett for posting this message in the EdinPhoto guestbook:

Top Storey

"I've just been reading the recollections of the good old days in swinging Edinburgh.

I was at the Top Story when the Pretty Things played, and the crowd flicked lit ciggies at the singer.

Happy days!"

Gordon Mackett, Leith, Edinburgh:  Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book:  May 17, 2011

Gordon subsequently posted this correction in the EdinPhoto guestbook.

Correction

Them

"I got the group at the 'Top Storey' wrong in the message above.  In fact the group was 'Them' and the singer was Van Morrison."

Gordon Mackett, Leith, Edinburgh:  Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book:  May 19, 2011

Recollections

122

Jimmy Tennant

Thank you to Jimmy Tennant who read of the death of the musician, Toto McNaughton in 2008, and replied:

Toto McNaughton

"I have just learned of Toto McNaughton's  passing, and I am so sorry to hear of such bad news.  I first met Toto back in 1954, and I immediately liked him.  He was a real riot and friendly with everyone.

Our meeting was because of our National Service time.  We spent our basic training in The Royal Scots and signed on together for an extra year. 

We joined the battalion in Egypt.  Our service time was spent in Egypt, Cyprus and Home, but most of it was active service.

I can honestly say that Toto kept his humour all through the good times and bad.  He really was a fun-loving character, and I have many fond memories of him.  There' are just too many stories to put on an email.  Bless his memories. 

I'm pleased to say that I was one of his good friends."

Jimmy Tennent, May 26, 2010

Recollections

123.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Thank you to Frank Ferri for sending me two signed photographs, one from the 1950s and the other from the 1960s.  Unfortunately, the copyright will not have expired on these photos, so I cannot add them to this web site.  However, I'll mention them below.

The photos were of:

Empire Theatre

The Crew Cuts

"I got my signed  photo of  'The Crew Cuts', a 1950s Canadian trio, when they appeared at the Empire Theatre, Edinburgh in the mid-1950s.. Charting songs then were 'Sh-Boom' and 'Earth Angel'."

Palais de Dance

Ray Ellington Quartet

"I got my signed picture of the Ray Ellington Quartet in the late 1950s when they had a short residency at the Palais De Dance, Fountainbridge.

Ray made several appearances in the old 1960s 'Goon Show' radio program with Peter Sellers, Harry Secombe and Michael Bentine"

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  May 26, 2011 (2 emails)

Recollections

124.

Lina

Edinburgh

Thank you to Lina for posting this message in the EdinPhoto guest book.

Lina wrote

Fayne & The Cruisers

"I'm looking to see if anyone has any photos of 'Fayne & The Cruisers'.  They were one of the top bands in Edinburgh in the 1960s.

I would be grateful if anyone has anything at all"

Lina, Edinburgh:  Message and email address posted
in the EdinPhoto guestbook:  June 1, 2011.

Recollections

125.

Margaret Ballentyne
(nee McGillivray)

Thank you to Margaret Ballentyne for posting this reply to Lina's message (above) posted in the EdinPhoto guest book.

Margaret wrote

Fayne & The Cruisers

"Colin Patterson, the drummer, is my nephew.  He now lives in Spain;  we do not know about the rest of the band.

My wife worked with Wee Colin, Jimmy and Big Colin in the printers."

Margaret Ballentyne (nee McGillivray):  June 1, 2011

Recollections

126.

Norma Cullen Sinclair

Newington, Edinburgh

Thank you to Norma Sinclair for providing more information about 'Fayne and the Cruisers'.

Norma wrote:

Fayne & The Cruisers

"In answer to Lina's question about Fayne & The Cruisers, I met their singer Dave (I can't remember his second name) last night in Mather's Bar, Broughton Street, Edinburgh. 

That's his local bar and he apparently can be heard singing Karaoke some Friday nights!

Small world, isn't it - we just popped in for a drink after a concert in the Playhouse"

Norma Cullen Sinclair, Newington, Edinburgh:  June 10, 2011

Recollections

127.

Allister Hughes

Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland

Thank you to Allister Hughes who wrote:

The Mimics Show Band

"I, along with:

-  Alan Paterson (Musselburgh)

-  Brian Flockhart (Musselburgh)

-  Jimmy Marshall (Musselburgh)

-  Dougie Anderson (Edinburgh)

 founded The Mimics Show Band."

The Pentland Inn

"We launched our first trial show at the Pentland Inn, Loanhead, where Alan Brian and I had been the resident band for some time initially starting there as a Country & Western Band (trying something new) with our then Drummer:

-  Robert McJimpsie (Elphinstone)

We had all played in various bands previously.

I am pleased to say our first show at the Pentland Inn was a great success and led to the official creation of the band under the management of Mike Keen of MK promotions, Edinburgh.  

Needless to say our time at The Pentland Inn was over almost overnight as we hit the road running.  The band was virtually an instant success.

South Africa

"I was Lead Guitarist, but left The Mimics in 1974 to emigrate to South Africa.  My replacement was Charles Bowler.  By coincidence, I met up with him some years later when the band had a gig at The Holiday Inn Johannesburg.  I believe shortly thereafter Charles decided to remain there.  It's a great country.

Also, by coincidence, Gordon Smart (Tranent) was their then front man, Gordon having been a apprentice in the long gone Scott's Electronics, Edinburgh, where we both worked."

Musselburgh

"I lived and worked in South Africa for 16 years, then returned to Musselburgh, only to be invited shortly thereafter to perform at The Brunton Hall, Musselburgh, as part of the Original Mimics re-founded on a once only basis by Jimmy Marshall for a special local charity event.

That was quite scary as had never played guitar since I left the band all those years before, but like riding a bike it all came flooding back and turned out to be a great night, even though we had rehearsed over the phone with Brian, as he was then living in England and was only coming up on the night of the show."

Where are the Others now?

"Dougie Anderson, I believe, emigrated to Canada.  Alan, Brian and Jimmy, I believe, are still around, but I have since lost touch with them.  In the event that they might read this some day, I wish them all well for the future and wish to thank them for providing me with the best time of my life."

Allister Hughes, Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland:  June 25, 2011

Reply to Allister?

If you'd like to send a message to Allister, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to him.    Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  June 25, 2011

Recollections

128.

Neil Macdonald

Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland

Thank you to Neil Macdonald who wrote, asking if anybody remembered some of the discos around Edinburgh in the late 1970s.

Neil wrote:

East Fountainbridge

"There was a disco/club either with entry from Bread Street or East Fountainbridge in the late-1970s.  I went there a few times.  It was a bit tiddly.

I can’t remember what it was called, I do remember you went through glass doors, and then straight upstairs to it?"

High Street

"Does anyone remember the 'Opposite Lock' in the High Street?"

Lothian Road

"There was also a kind of American diner / bar downstairs from what is now 'Karma' in Lothian Road.  It then became a disco with horrible tartan carpets.  Again, any thoughts?"

Neil Macdonald, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland:  June 21, 2011

Recollections

129.

Allister Hughes

Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland

The Mimics Show Band

Thank you to Allister Hughes for writing again.

This time, Alister sent me a copy of an article published in the Musselburgh News, about 18 years ago.  The article included a photo of the original Mimics from the 1970s, reformed for a charities concert  as a tribute to Billy Nimmo, a professional footballer who had died the previous year.

The group performed to a capacity audience at the Brunton Hall.

Acknowledgement:  Allister Hughes, Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland:  June 25, 2011

 I'll try to seek copyright permission to include the photo mentioned above on the EdinPhoto web site.

Recollections

130.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Thank you to Frank Ferri for replying to 'Recollections 128 above.

Frank wrote

Lothian Road

"What is now 'Karma' in Lothian Road might have been 'The Berkley'.  It was just past Castle Terrace, and was popular with American servicemen stationed at Kirknewton in the late-1950s and 1960s,

I played there in 'The Jokers' band around 1964."

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  July 6, 2011

Recollections

131.

Tony Brown

Southsea, Hampshire, England

Thank you to Frank Ferri for replying to 'Recollections 128 above.

Frank wrote

The Place

"I come from Northumberland and spent a lot of my childhood and my youth in Edinburgh, a wonderful city.

As teenagers we drove up at night and went to The Place in Victoria Street.

Food

"After 'The Place', we'd head for the Stockpot for something to sustain us.   During daytime visits, we'd grab lunch at the Pied Piper.

I never tire of Edinburgh.  I've enjoyed all the nostalgia here."

Tony Brown, Southsea, Hampshire, England:  July 9, 2011

Recollections

132.

Patricia Gallagher

Australia

Patricia Gallagher wrote:

Question

Sneaky Pete's

"My friend and I recently passed a pub called 'Sneaky Pete's' at 73 Cowgate, and remembered going there in the 1970s when it was called something else.  We can't remember the name though, and I just wondered if you would know how I could find out."

Patricia Gallagher, Australia:  July 10, 2011

Hi Patricia. 

I see from the Internet that Sneaky Pete's in the Cowgate is now an underground disco.  It opened in 2008. 

I've checked my Edinburgh & Leith Post Office Directory to see if I could discover what it was in 1970, but it's not listed there.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  July 10, 2011

Reply?

If you remember the name of 73 Cowgate, Edinburgh in the 1970s, please email me, then I'll pass on our reply to Patricia.  Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  July 10, 2011

Recollections

133.

Stewart Connolly

West Highlands, Scotland

Thank you to Stewart Connolly for replying to Patricia Gallagher's question in 132 above.

Stewart wrote:

Nips o' Brandy

"Sneaky Pete's used to be called  'Nips o' Brandy'."

Stewart Connolly, West Highlands, Scotland:  July 10, 2011

Patricia appreciated your answer, Stewart.  She has just written:

"Yes!! That was it. Thanks so much.  It was keeping me awake!"

Patricia Gallagher, Australia:  July 10, 2011

Recollections

134.

John Gray

Stenhouse, Edinburgh

Thank you to John Gray for replying to 'Recollections 128' above.

John wrote:

East Fountainbridge

"Neil Macdonald asked about the disco on East Fountainbridge.  It was probably either:

-  'The White Elephant' or

-  'The Muscular Arms'."

Lothian Road

"Neil Macdonald also asked about the club in Lothian Road with the horrible tartan carpets.  I think it was called 'Pipers', which kind of matches the tartan carpet description.

If I remember, that was where they booked groups of tourists, especially Americans into the place which served meals and had show bands and pipers playing."

Neil Macdonald, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland:  June 21, 2011

Recollections

135.

Neil Lawrence

Fountainbridge, Edinburgh

Neil Lawrence added (in response to the question in '132' above):

Sneaky Pete's

"Sneaky Pete's was Nips o' Brandy in the 1970s.
In 2007 it was Abbar.
In 2009, it was Red.

Neil Lawrence, Fountainbridge, Edinburgh:  July 12, 2011

Recollections

136.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Frank Ferri wrote:

White Elephant

"The White Elephant was the old Palladium Theatre at East Fountainbridge."

International

"The bar with tartan carpets at Lothian Road was owned by the former golfer, Ronnie Shade.  Well, he was the front man, anyway, financed by a well known Edinburgh businessman, I say with tongue in cheek.

I think it was called the International.  It had great Motown music, played by a DJ in the 1970s.

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  July 14, 2011

Recollections

137.

Mike Crean

Dorking, Surrey, England

Thank you to Mike Crean for writing for replying to Bruce Walsh's comments in Recollections 107 above.

Mike wrote:

The Boston Dexters

"I knew the The Boston Dexters band:

-  Vocals:  Tam White.

-  Guitar:  Johnny Turnbull.

-  Bass Guitar:  Alan Lancaster.

-  Drums:  Toto McNaughton."

The Grant Hardy Group

"Frank Ferri mentions Frank Conner.  However Frank had played with The Crusaders, then went on to form a sort of Edinburgh super group called The Grant Hardy Group, comprising:

-  Vocals:  Jimmy Cruickshanks

-  Guitar:   Frank Conner.

-  Guitar:   Peter Bottomley

-  Bass:    Jimmy Bain.

-  Drums:  Alan Pratt."

1970s

"The Grant Hardy Group were a great band, but short-lived.   Jimmy went on to join The Partisans.  Frank went off to the ocean liners.  Peter also played briefly with The Partisans.    Alan went on to play with many other prominent bands.

However, Jimmy went on to gain fame and fortune with Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow during the 1970s."

Mike Crean:  Dorking, Surrey, England:  August 26, 2011

Recollections

138.

Angela Downie (nee Lancashire)

West Mains, Edinburgh

Thank you to Angela Downie, West Mains, Edinburgh, who attended Darroch School from 1959 to 1962,  for posting a message in the EdinPhoto guestbook.

Here is an extract from Angela's posting in the guest book:

Clubs

"I remember Saturday nights at the 'Green Light Club' at Viewforth Church Hall, and later at :

-  The Gamp,'

-  The Place,,

-  Top Storey,

-  The Cavendish'.

In fact, my friend, Norma Ramsay, and I went out dancing almost every night of the week.  Mostly, this was when we had started work."

Angela Downie (nee Lancashire), West Mains, Edinburgh:
Message and email address posted in EdinPhoto guestbook, August 29, 2011.

Recollections

139.

Ian Kennedy

London, England

Thank you to Ian Kennedy who wrote about his band in Edinburgh in the 1960s.

Ian wrote:

The Sapphires

"I've just seen the EdinPhoto web site.  It's great, because I am from Edinburgh, but now living in the south.  In the 1960s, I  played in a band called The Sapphires."

Venues

I've looked at all the items on the EdinPhoto web site and, horror, no one has mentioned us!    Does anyone remember us?  We wore dark red jackets and white trousers.  I played drums!

We played, sometimes twice a week, at:

-  The Gamp Club

-  Top Storey

-  Luna Park

-  The Palais, on a revolving stage with Ray McVey and his orchestra every Thursday!

-  Kirknewton American airbase.

We were blessed with  The McKinley Sisters who were on with us.  They went down a storm with the Americans! 

I loved playing in Edinburgh, and sadly miss it!  I left to go to London.  I joined BBC as a Film Cameraman, and have been here ever since! 

In fact, I even met my wife, Jane Taylor, when I was playing with The Sapphires at the Gamp Club.  We've been married since 1966 -  still going!"

Remember Us?

So come on folks.  Who remembers us?     I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers.   Unfortunately, I'm not in touch with the other members of the band.  Maybe, some of them may see this message.  Does anybody know where they are?  Who knows? 

It was the best and most fantastic time of my life and I'd love to see who remembers us.  Some of you might have enjoyed our music."

Ian Kennedy, London, England:  September 7, 2011

Reply to Ian

If you remember the Sapphires or know where any of the group are now, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Ian.    Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  September 11, 2011

Recollections

140.

Bob Jenkins

Mayfield, Edinburgh

Thank you to Bob Jenkins who wrote:

The International Club

"The International in Princes Street was owned by Jimmy Rossio. (I'm not sure if this is the correct spelling.) His nephew, Calvin Munro, owned The World's End pub in the High Street.

I was one of the roadies with Reflection from 1967 to 1969, and we played the Nash almost every Saturday night.  Usually, it was the last spot after a wonderful couple of hours playing the Top Storey!"

Bob Jenkins, Mayfield, Edinburgh
Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book:  September 9, 2011

Recollections

141.

Allister Hughes

Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland

Thank you to Allister Hughes for writing again.

Allister wrote:

The Mimics Show Band

"Since my initial recent posting (127 above) I am delighted to say that I have managed to find, establish contact with and meet up with all but one of the original Mimics.

My most recent contact was at a charity event, held at The Ship Inn, Musselburgh, where the Lancashire based band Kickstart were performing, fronted by:

-   Brian Flockhart (Bass/Vocals)

-  Alan Patterson (Drums)

-  other members of the Kickstart band."

Jimmy Marshall

"In addition to enjoying the band I was delighted to be joined by Jimmy Marshall and some old friends from long ago in what turned out to be a great night."

Jimmy Marshall

"I have also been in contact with Gordon Smart who confirmed that he is still part of he and The Mimics act  -  still on the go, some forty 40 on.

It has turned out to be a small world."

Allister Hughes, Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland:  September 22, 2011

Recollections

142.

Simon Swan

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Gig Archive

Thank you to Simon Swan for telling me about his Edinburgh Gig Archive web site, a site that covers gigs and venues in Edinburgh, mainly in the 1970s and 1980s.

The site includes photos of venues, musicians on stage and copies of adverts and tickets for the performances.  Here are a few of the venues mentioned on the site and a few of the musicians who performed there:

All information above has been taken from the Edinburgh Gig Archive web site,
with acknowledgement to  Simon Swan, Edinburgh, sole owner and author of the site.

Recollections

143.

Simon Clegg

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Coasters Roller Disco

Thank you to Simon Clegg for allowing me to reproduce this photo.

Commenting on Coasters Roller Disco, Simon wrote:

Tollcross

"This photo was taken as everyone was leaving Clouds Roller Disco at Tollcross, after a gig.  This photo was taken around 1979.

©

Clouds, Coasters, or The Cavendish Ballroom, in Tollcross was the venue for many concerts throughout the 1970s and into the 1980s, having been a popular dance hall since the 1940s.  In its time, it was also known as Outer Limits and as The Network."

Simon Clegg, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Recollections

144.

Ian Young

Hawick, Borders, Scotland

Ian Young wrote:

Saunders Street Concert

'Writing on the Wall'

Question

"Does anyone have any information about an open air concert held on the waste ground in Saunders Street, Stockbridge, some time after the old housing had been demolished (1968?).

I can remember seeing Linnie Patterson climbing all over the stage scaffolding, presumably with 'Writing on the Wall' but have no idea of why it was organised or who the other bands were."

Ian Young, Hawick, Borders, Scotland:  October 25, 2011

 Recollections

145.

Malcolm Robertson

Sighthill, Edinburgh

Thank you to Malcolm Robetson who wrote:

Found under the Floor Boards

"I have been doing a bit of DIY in my house in Sighthill and under my floor boards I have found a wallet with lots paperwork in it dating from 1964.

The wallet belonged to a man called George Laird from the Gracemount area. 

Within the wallet -there were:

-  A membership card for the PLACE JAZZ CLUB.

-  Some love letters from a woman called Sandra

-   Photos and negatives of different people and of  1960s cars.  My dad thinks the photos were taken down at Portobello."

Where is George Now?

"I would just like to know if anyone knows of or remembers this George Laird.  I don't really know very much about the 1960s, as I was born in 1979, but it has been great finding out about that era.

I'd just like to give these memories back to George, whoever or wherever he may be.  He was an aerial rigger for Maitland Radio, Gayfield Place and his address was 50/11 Gracemount Drive.  He should only be in his 60s now, as on the paperwork it says he was 19 in 1964.

Maybe we'll find George, and maybe even Sandra."

Malcolm Robertson, Sighthill, Edinburgh:  November 13, 2011

Reply to Malcolm

If you have known George Laird, or have any idea where he might be now, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Malcolm Robertson.

Thank you .

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  November 14, 2011

 Recollections

146.

Margaret Burns

near Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland

Thank you to Margaret Burns who wrote:

Afternoons

Oasis Club

"Can anyone remember the Oasis Club, around  1970.   It was opposite the now Festival Theatre and up the stairs above the now Indian restaurant.

It was for the under-16's, and was on a Sunday afternoon, 2.00pm till 4.30pm. Local bands played there.  Bay City Rollers  were just starting out with Nobby  Clarke as their lead singer."

Evenings

Franco's or The Iron Trap

"After this we went home, then in the evening our group went to  Frisco's down Carrubbers Close, Edinburgh,  or The Iron Trap, Musselburgh.

I usually went with my friends to the Iron  Trap as the bus was at 6.55 from the top of my road to Musselburgh and I met everyone on it.  I was home for 10.30pm for school the next day.

Happy days!"

Margaret Burns, near Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland:  January 8, 2012

 Recollections

147.

Norrie Bishop

Edinburgh

Thank you to Norrie Bishop for replying to a question raised just over a year ago by Jim Archibald, about the dance hall opposite McGoos.

See 'Recollections 76'.

Norrie wrote:

Opposite McGoos

"The dance hall down the lane opposite McGoos  was in what were the vaults, not unlike 'The Cavern'

It was called either 'The Tempo Club' or 'The Temple Club'.  The group that played there was  'The Dominoes'.

One of the night, when we were there, Johnny Campbell joined them for a couple of numbers."

Norrie Bishop, Edinburgh:  January 14, 2012

 Recollections

148.

Robert Laird

Longstone, Edinburgh

Robert Laird wrote:

Casablanca Disco

"I was browsing the site just now, looking at the Disco’s/Clubs contributions and saw only a few notes about the Casablanca Disco in Rose Street.

I went there a few times, back in the late-1960s - an older lad who sometimes played in the same football team as me was a 'bouncer' there.  Gus Thomson was his name, and a nod and a wink form Gus got me and my partner free admission.

Ronnie McEwan, the brother of the lead singer with the Bay City Rollers was DJ at the club for a while, but he left for a better spot in a Glasgow Club and it was never the same after that."

Robert Laird, Longstone, Edinburgh:  January 16, 2012

 Recollections

149.

John Alexander

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

John Alexander was vocalist for the Plastic Meringue group in Edinburgh in the late-1960s.  Thank you to John for sending the photos and comments below.  Please click on any of the thumbnail images below to enlarge them and read the names of the members of Plastic Meringue

John wrote

Casablanca

"The Plastic Meringue were a regular feature at the Casablanca, playing there at least once a week and in some cases 2 or 3 nights, all through 1968 and early-1969.

This advert for the Casablanca appeared in the Evening News on Saturday July 27, 1968.

    ©

The Casablanca was one of our favourite venues, it was dark and had a great atmosphere.

The crowd were usually complimentary to our brand of music (rock/blues) which was a bit progressive for Edinburgh then.

Here are Plastic Meringue playing at Casablanca in 1968.  

    ©

John Alexander, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia:  January 22+24, 2012

Please click on the thumbnail image above to enlarge it and read the names of the members of the group.

John added:

Plastic Meringue

"Here are two publicity photos of Plastic Meringue.

This one was taken in winter 1967 at North Berwick Open Air Pool, with no water in the pool.

    ©

This one was taken in 1969 at Musselburgh Sports Ground where we used to practice."

    ©

John Alexander, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia:  January 22+24, 2012

John Alexander travelled to the UK from Sydney, Australia, in 2007 and popped in to Edinburgh for a few days to catch up with family and friends.  Bruce (bass) surprised him with a reunion of Plastic Meringue.

The band - apart from Stewart (organist) who was in Spain on his Harley! had their reunion, drinks and a jam session, at the 'Black Boab' pub  in Falkirk.  Below are a couple of photos taken at this session.

John wrote:

Reunion

"Here is a photo of me at the reunion in 2007."

    ©

"Here is a photo of John (Dinky) on drums and Bruce on bass at the reunion in 2007."

    ©

John Alexander, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia:  January 22+24, 2012

 Recollections

150.

John Alexander

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Thank you to John Alexander for sending me another photo taken at the Reunion of members of the Plastic Meringue group in 2007.

Here is the latest photo that John has sent to me.

©

 In the photo are (left to right):

-  Bob  Moyes lead guitar

-  John Alexander  vocals

-  John Brown  (Dinky)   drums

1967 and 2007

I've included the photo above with two others in this panel showing members of the band in 1967 and at their reunion in 2007:

©

Please click on the two images above to enlarge them.

 Recollections

151.

Grahame Davis

Christchurch, New Zealand

Thank you to Graham Davis for posting a message in the EdinPhoto guestbook.

Grahame wrote:

Early-1960s

"I love hearing of places that jog my memory of my teenage years in the early-1960s.   Wonderful times!"

Bungies

"I remember Bungies, being up royal mile off the Bridges on the left of street.  My recollection is of 3 to 4 floors, cafe on ground with upper floors with different music/bands on each floor on Friday and Saturday nights, 7pm to 7am.   Great nights!"

Other Clubs and Cafes

"I remember:

-  the Gamp.  Was it on the curved street going down from Greyfriars Bobby statue to the Grassmarket?

-   Palais de Dance.  I loved the Saturday afternoon sessions.  They were very busy  -  full houses

-  great music of the times:   "Papa's got a Brand New Bag" by James Brown

-   The Twist, a popular dance then:  "Lets dance",  "Twistin' the Night Away" and many more."

-  the cafe / milk bar, one street up from Princes Street at the West End, with parked scooters outside.

-  my mate, John Millar (then  a chef ).  I'd love to make contact again."

Grahame Davies, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Message posted in EdinPhoto guestbook:  February 12, 2012

 Recollections

152.

Lynda Wright

Australia

Thank you to Lynda Wright who wrote:

The International Club

The Owner

"I've just read the comments above about the International Club.

 To answer a few questions:

-  Jimmy Roccio was the owner of the International Club.   Yes, he was Italian but he was born and  bred in Edinburgh.   His first club was the 'Luna Park' in the High St

-  Originally, Jimmy had partners in the International Club, the famous Paddy Reilly and Peter Williamson.   I'm not to sure how long that partnership lasted but It could not have been very long.

-  Jimmy Roccio owned the business and the building for many years and, yes, the club did eventually become Fire Island."

My Dad

"I left Edinburgh in 1968 for Australia and I am one of  Jimmy Roccio's daughters.  I have fantastic memories of the club.  Between the ages of 16 and 18, I would have spend every night there, sometimes working the cash desk but mostly dancing."

Manager and Bouncers

"Can anybody remember Jimmy Fischer the manager and  the bouncers Eddie, Merv and  Mick.   I can't remember all their names."

Bands

"Some nights there would be as many as nine bands playing, and people lined up four abreast to get in. These were some of the bands and performers:

-  Bay City Rollers, with Tam Paton and his usual bevy of girls.

-  Three's a Crowd with Bobby Smith (Smiggy).

-  The Hipple People.

-  The Beachcombers.

-  Writing on the Wall.

-  The Live Wires.

-  The In-Crowd from Glasgow.

-  The Moonrakers.

-   Ian Nicoll (I can't remember what band he was in.)

-   Jimmy Cruickshank (I can't remember what band he was in.)

-   the beautiful Linnie Patterson.

-   Jimmy Bain.

-   many folk singers that I just can't remember."

"I'd love to hear from anybody from that time."

Lynda Wright, Australia:  February 11 2012

Reply to Lynda?

If you'd like to send a reply to Lynda, please email me, then I'll give you her email address.    Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  February 14, 2012

 Recollections

153.

Jack Hawkins

Thank you to Jack Hawkins who wrote:

Barry Sinclair

"Can you help?  I'm trying to contact a friend who sung with my band, 'Jack Hawkins Band'.  For a few years, he was called 'Barry Sinclair, Butch and the Bandits'.

When he joined my band, I changed his name to Barry St Clair.  Do you know where he might be?"

Jack Hawkins:  February 27, 2012

Reply to Jack?

Please email me if you thin you might be able to help Jack to find Barry.  Thank you

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  February 27, 2012

Update

Please see 'Reply to Recollections 153' below

Reply

 to

  Recollections

153.

Maureen Hogg

Cape Town, South Africa

Thank you to Maureen Hogg who wrote:

Barry Sinclair

"I see that Jack Hawkins has been trying to trace Barry Sinclair (Butch and the Bandits).  I didn't know him but I think my brother Frank, who played with the Crusaders, knew him.

I'm sorry to say that Barry died last year but I will try and find someone to contact you with more info."

Maureen Hogg, Cape Town, South Africa:  March 12, 2012

 Recollections

154.

Frank Ferri

Newhaven, Edinburgh

Lynda Wright mentioned in Recollections 152 above that she could not remember which band Jimmy Cruickshank played in.

Here, Frank Ferri gives the answer.

Frank wrote:

Jimmy Cruickshank

"Jimmy Cruickshank was lead singer for The Embers.  He was one of a few from the Ferranti electronics company in the 1960s.

They, like The Saracens did a good interpretation of the Stones' covers.  I knew them well in my days with the Jokers."

Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh:  February 15, 2012

 Recollections

155.

Mel Roccio

Lynda Wright, in Recollections 152 above, wrote about her Dad Jimmy Roccio, being the owner of the International Club in Princes Street.

Now, Mel Roccio has written:

The International

"Jimmy Roccio was my grandfather. He owned the International club on Princes Street, which opened in the 1960s. He later rented the building out and it became Fire Island.

My dad, Sergio (Jimmy's son) came over from Italy, aged 5 in the early-1950s and lived in the Kirkgate with his dad and mum, Evelina."

Michael's Cafe

"Jimmy's parents, Mary and Michael owned Michael's Cafe in the Kirkgate."

Recollections

"Any recollections about the Nash, Michaels cafe or any of my family members would be greatly appreciated!"

Mel Roccio, March 2, 2012

Reply to Jimmy Roccio

If you'd like to send a message to Jimmy Roccio, please email me, then I'll let you know how to contact him.

    Thank you.

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  March 2, 2012

 Recollections

156.

Stuart Davie

East Lothian, Scotland

Thank you to Stuart Davie for replying to Bruce Welsh's comments in Recollections 112 above.

Stuart wrote:

Three's A Crowd

"Bruce Welsh asked for any information about the Edinburgh band, Three’s A Crowd from the 1960s era.

Bruce might be interested to know that Alan Pratt (drummer) still appears around East Lothian with his Blues band.  His band is  The Alan Pratt Blues Council (Bass, Lead Guitar, Drums, Harp & Vocals).  They make really good rockin’ (Blues) music.

Three’s A Crowd were my Rock Gods as a teenager.  I grew up in the Edinburgh area and picked up my first guitar in the 1960s.  I haven’t put it down yet, and turned 60 this year."

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  March 2, 2012

 Recollections

157.

David King

Trinity, Edinburgh

Thank you to David King for replying to Mel Roccio's comments in  Recollections 155 above.

David wrote:

Fire Island

"I was interested to read the contributions above, including those from relatives of Jimmy Roccio.

As a frequent visitor to Fire Island in the 1980s, I met and spoke to Jimmy a number of times. He came along to the club every so often, although Bill Grainger, as I recall, was the promoter of the events. He was always very charming and pleasant.

Among the acts in those days was Hazell Dean (who got on 'Top of the Pops' with ‘Searchin’) and Eartha Kitt.

In truth, by that stage the premises were not in the best condition.  The floor above was unoccupied and in winter it ‘rained’ with condensation off the cold ceiling. Punching holes in the ceiling for scaffold tubes to support the lighting rig probably didn’t help!

 If it got too hot, the windows onto Princes Street were held open with bar stools – presumably the sash cords had broken and not been replaced.

But it was an excellent club with top class music, well-mixed (in the vinyl days when it was much more difficult) by the DJs who knew their game – Jimmy Tant and others – and a good night was had by all."

Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh:  March 7, 2012

 Recollections

158.

Liz Torres

Melbourne, Florida, USA

Jimmy Roccio and his family have been mentioned recently in Recollections 152, 155 and 157 above.

Here, Liz Torres also remembers the family.

Elizabeth wrote:

The Roccio Family

"In reply to Lynda Wright's Lynda Wright's comments above, I knew Jimmy Roccio very well, and also knew his mother.  That would be Lynda's grandma.

Christmas

That old lady had class.  She never celebrated Christmas as she lost a daughter on Christmas Day, but, every child up in Pirniefield Bank received a selection box from her - and no child ever went hungry.

The Shop

She lived in Seafield Avenue, but at the end spent more time at the back of her store.  It was in her store that I first encountered a slot machine.  I bought penny tokens, but never won.

The Nash

Jimmy Roccio used to let me into the 'Nash' at least twice a month for free.  I think he had a book with a tally (LOL).  He used to say: 'Behave yourself or I'll tell your mother'."

Liz Torres, Melbourne, Florida USA:  March 17, 2012

 Recollections