I moved to Wells in 1986, a non-musician in those days. I often saw Simon playing in Penniless Porch. Hear hear to his playing being wasted on the public.

He played at the birthday party of a colleague, and I recall him now, sitting outside the tiny cottage on Mendip, mid winter, playing to and for himself, as the guests huddled inside. He played a lot of dances roundabout, and sometimes came to the Hunters, but I think us apprentice accordionists scared him off!

My colleague told me Simon was a big cheese in Fleet Street backaways, but chucked it in to play the music he loved.

Great guy.

Skipjack

ps Hoping the wake is Tuesday 10th, as it's the only night I can make it from Yorkshire.