When I was young, my mum tried to teach me how to play the piano, but unfortunately, my attitude towards the lessons was much the same as my attitude towards my education at the legendary Nantwich and Acton Grammar School (decisions I have always regretted). However when electric guitars came into vogue, I managed to get a cheap acoustic guitar, and applied myself with far more diligence than previously shown towards the piano.
I managed to obtain a cheap electric guitar and amp, and joined a group with a school friend. Eventually our drummer left and I was the only one in the band with any clue how to play drums (which is a long drawn out story). My parents stood as guarantors for me to buy an Olympic drum kit, so I guess they’re responsible in a way for the row I now make.
I played in several Crewe bands, but was lucky enough to be asked to joined Dene Wayne and the Exiles in the mid to late 60s. They were considered to be one of the top local bands, so my decision was a no brainer. I reckoned that the best way to improve as a drummer was to play with a higher standard of musicians. I played with them until the early 70s, when we had a slight change of personnel, and called ourselves Tarquin (very macho!). When Tarquin folded, I carried on with various bands, and widened my experience in other musical areas.
As a result, I have played in a big band, a brass band, a Blood, Sweat and Tears / Chicago tribute band, backed cabaret artistes and done a stint in a theatre orchestra pit. More recently, I have been playing in rock/pop bands and a 60s tribute band.

Having been with Charlie Farley through several personnel changes, we now have a good band with no egos, which is great. Long may it continue.
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