Some of you may already know this, but Mike Linden, leader of the Liverpool-based Acme Ceilidh Band, has died. He had been ill for some months with what was thought to have been a recurrence of an old stomach problem, but was more recently diagnosed with liver cancer, and died on 30th March. Mike was accordionist with the Acme Band for over 40 years, and still playing until the last few weeks. He was also for many years fiddler/mandolinist and singer with the Flat County String Band.
His funeral was last Friday, the delay being due to an autopsy. Mike didn't want a funeral - didn't want the fuss. But his wife, Norma, was persuaded that many people would want to pay their respects, and so tried to contact as many as possible, but there must still be a lot of people who haven't heard the news, so please pass this on.
A talented musician with a great sense of humour. Mike was one of the good 'uns. He will be greatly missed.

John Kelly.