Derek was a mate, and he and Hazel were a large part of my "Folkie" life in the late 60's and early 70's. Many happy evenings were spent at the Assembly Rooms in Surbiton. Derek gave me my first solo booking there, in the days when I knew just the three chords, and I've forgotten one of them now I'm an old codger.
I was invited to their wedding at Michael Balfour's house on Coombe Hill, and it was a glorious day, with a jazz band (Digby Fairweather) and lots of booze. Hazel sang with the band, and Derek played trumpet, and a good time was had by one and all. Hazel, had a glorious voice, and she could belt out a jazz number, just as well as she could sing ballads, like The Dowie Dens of Yarrow. It was so sad when she died prematurely, and now that Derek has gone, it's the end of an era in my life, but I'm glad to see his son Chris carrying on the family folk tradition.
Rest in peace Derek, I shall miss you.