Some really sad news - Ivy Poole who ran the Swindon Folk Singers with her late husband Ted Poole for over 60 years sadly passed away yesterday morning. A warm hearted singer and organiser.

Many of you will have known them. Both she and Ted were members of the Swindon branch of the Communist Party and were well respected within the party, the town and beyond for their unswerving beliefs, commitment and loyalty to the cause as well as their kindness, compassion and respect for ordinary working people.

They were both fine singers not just of traditional folk songs but jazz, music hall and the popular songs of their youth. Their interpretation of “The Sheik of Araby” was as surprising as it was entertaining!