It is with great sadness and regret I report the death of Nancy Robinson of Hull, on the morning of Christmas Eve in hospital in Manchester after a short period of illness.

Those of you around the folk scene in England since the 60s may remember Nancy as first the wife of the great David (Mick) Robinson who acted as catalyst for a host of performers in the Hull area before his untimely death at 44 in 1974. Mick and Nancy travelled around Britain and Ireland going from one folk festival to another in their old VW campervan usually with a van full of young singers and musicians who they had adopted as extra children and drinking partners.

Then later Nancy became the partner of Tommy from Leeds (Someone please remind me of Tommy's surname) playing English concertina to Tommy's whistle and both of them singing together. Tommy died a few years ago and his funeral was held in Hull, his life being celebrated in a concert with many old friends performing.

Nancy stayed on in Hull in close contact with Beryl Manuel, widow of Scots singer Ian (Jock) Manuel. Nancy's daughter, Mindy, earlier on had moved to Manchester and that is where Nancy was staying for the festive season when she fell ill.

2009 has been a bad year for losing old friends. Heartfelt condolences to Mindy.

The funeral is at Hull Crematorium on Friday 15th of this month. For further details please PM me.