2022 Obit: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill

Subject: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: C Stuart Cook
Date: 05 Feb 22 - 04:29 AM

Just got back from the funeral of Harold Neild. Joyous occasion according to Harold’s specific instructions. Apart from his technical, political and other achievements, one of them was his contribution in organising folk clubs in the Tameside area.He started the Cross Keys club in Uppermill that then ran continuously for over 40 years until Corvid intervened. (It may rise Phoenix like with the forthcoming change of Landlords.)

The Cross Keys club has been a valued live music venue to countless musicians as they started their careers and as they reached being known as a performer worldwide.

In addition to a recording of Harold himself, there was even a live performance by Oldham’s very own, premier boy band The Hometowners.

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: Brian Peters
Date: 05 Feb 22 - 09:49 AM

I don't think I knew him - he wasn't running the Cross Keys when I first discovered it - but he deserves a big vote of thanks for starting it. And I do hope it restarts.

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: Black belt caterpillar wrestler
Date: 05 Feb 22 - 11:51 AM

The same here Brian. I have always found the club to be a friendly set of people so he has quite a legacy.

Robin

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: Brian Peters
Date: 05 Feb 22 - 12:43 PM

Yes, Robin, I've always enjoyed playing there. A unique atmosphere, either in the barn or in front of the range in the old kitchen.

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: C Stuart Cook
Date: 06 Feb 22 - 10:51 AM

I think you’ll still have been in short pants Brian. Harold met Ken Cambell at Pearts Engineers in Hyde. Ken persuaded him to go to the Pennines club at Hyde Utd. Once one of the biggest and most popular big name clubs in the country. The list of artists and group who played was stellar. Barbara Dickson and Jasper Carrott as floor singers! First outing for Bread & Fishes and later on Matchstalk Men.

Harold was instantly converted and never looked back.

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: The Sandman
Date: 06 Feb 22 - 04:34 PM

I played there many,times
I did not know him - he wasn't running the Cross Keys when i played there 1980s 1990s

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Feb 22 - 09:17 AM

Harold took the XKeys on in the early 70’s. He got Pat to run the the club with him to begin with. Later on Ali ran it the then Jim Schofield up to Corvid. Hopefully there will be a Phoenix like resurrection when the new landlords take over.

Subject: RE: Harold Neild - Cross Keys, Uppermill
From: FreddyHeadey
Date: 04 Apr 24 - 07:23 AM

Cross Keys
   Without any guest nights as yet but confirmed as still running by Pelican Babies, April 2024.
Folk Clubs/Concerts/Festivals/Events North West Uk

"Popped over to the singaround at the Cross Keys in Uppermill last night and what a terrific night it was.
Lovely atmosphere with some great performers. Very friendly bunch too."   

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