Terry was one of the very best friends I ever had. Yes, he was opinionated (and occasionally 'curmudgeonly' - but that's because he had a set of passionate beliefs, often at odds with some of those around him) but he was also, under the gruff exterior, a kind, generous and warm person. He loved nothing better than having a house full of friends. He was also a very good cook and enjoyed catering for all of his mates.

When I first arrived in Manchester, in 1972, Terry was one of the first people that I met. When he realised that we both shared an appreciation for such singers as Ewan MacColl and Bert Lloyd we became firm friends. In spite of these common interests we didn't agree on everything and had many furious and enjoyable arguments (usually on the way back from the wonderful 'Ryburn 3 Step' folk club, near Ripponden, where we were both residents). Though 'furious' these arguments were never acrimonious and we never fell out in all the 34 years that I knew him - you had to understand that Terry loved arguing - it was an important part of his life and his character!

Of course Terry was a great singer and one of the pioneers of the post-war revival. As others in this thread have pointed out he was a stalwart of the early Manchester folk scene.
In recent years Terry was the prime-mover behind a series of Ewan MacColl commemorative weekends in Salford. These were some of the most enjoyable folk music occasions that I can remember. At these weekends local singers contributed their talents along side some of the great names of the modern folk scene. I suspect that one of the reasons that these weekends were so successful was because of the respect and admiration that all concerned had for Terry.

I will miss Terry in the years to come - he played an important part in my life and it's difficult to imagine life without him (and the arguments!).

Rest in peace, Terry mate. If success in life is measured in friends and goodwill (and I can think of no better measure) you were one of the most successful people I ever met!

Dave B.