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Added 16th October 2014 by bluelotus

Artefact

Photograph
Blue Lotus Jazzmen
Belle Vue
1963

I have added a photograph of the original, founder members of the Blue Lotus Jazzband. It is thought to have been taken in 1963 at Belle Vue.
John Hallam (clarinet), Alan (Talf) Ashton (trumpet), Micky Cooke (trombone), Peter Ashton (drums), Duncan Hollows (double bass), Michael (Charlie) Connor (tenor banjo) and stand in pianist Mrs Watson who replaced Christopher Shaw.
These 6 original male members appeared on Opportunity Knocks, The Royal Albert Hall and The 100 Club, Oxford Street, London, supporting band to Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen.
They also played numerous venues in and around Manchester and also appeared at The Cavern in Liverpool.
Sadly Peter Ashton died in 2010 and Micky Cooke in 2014.
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Latest Discussion

“Lovely artefact.”
Written by Abigail
17 Oct 2014
“Thanks for the photo. Sorry to hear about Pete and Micky. I joined the band after Peter was taken ill and couldn't fulfil the gigs, and was with them for many years. Great band! Love to see any more photos.”
Written by brianellwood
18 Oct 2014
“Pete Cartlidge .. slight correction to BLUELOTUS text .. ... Duncan Pete Cartlidge ... Small correction .. Duncan did not play on Opportunity Knocks . I joined the band on bass just before the auditions for the show and appeared on the show with the band. I also attended a presentation at Belle View when the band received trophies ( Believe re National Association of Boys Clubs music award ) from Pat Phoenix. I also played at the Cavern Club and a number of gigs around that time. Sad to hear about Micky and Pete. Last time I saw Micky was when he was standing in for George Chisholm at Lincoln Theatre Royal.. believe it was Humphrey Littletons band .. sometime around 1975.”
Written by petewilc
27 Apr 2015
“Just wanted to let you know that Michael Connor (my dad) passed away from cancer in Australia in January 2016. He had fond memories of his time in the band. None of his family know how/why he got the nickname Charlie, though. :)”
Written by LisaK
26 Mar 2018
“Hi Lisa, remember your Dad well. He Had a great sense of humour! Sorry to hear that he had passed away. best regards, brian (drums).”
Written by brianellwood
26 Mar 2018
“I have found a recording on an old reel to reel tape of The Blue Lotus Jazzmen on Opportunity Knocks, with full introduction from Harry Hallam. I'm more than happy to share this of course.”
Written by Kevin Ellis
09 Jun 2023
“Kevin, that would be amazing. Thank you. Where did you find it?

My email is debbie_ashton101@yahoo.co.uk if its an audio file or just let me know how you would be able yo share !!!”
Written by bluelotus
09 Jun 2023
“Just re-read your initial message. I see its on reel to reel. Will see how we can digitise :)”
Written by bluelotus
09 Jun 2023
“Email on it's way with digital file :-)”
Written by Kevin Ellis
09 Jun 2023
“Hi Kevin, I’d love to have a copy of the footage if you’re happy to share. My email is lisak8373@gmail.com. :)”
Written by LisaK
09 Jun 2023
“Email sent Lisa :-)”
Written by Kevin Ellis
10 Jun 2023
“Thanks, Kevin. Much appreciated! :)”
Written by LisaK
10 Jun 2023
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