Road to ruin
THIS week’s column is a challenge to readers, and it’s a tough one – how do the Highways Department of Lancashire County Council decide on their road maintenance priorities? We … Continue readingRoad to ruin
Author: Margaret Ashworth
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The Ronettes: So Young
The death of Ronnie Spector (née Bennett) last week at 78 prompts a short season of her tracks. This was written as I’m So Young by William ‘Prez’ Tyus and first released … Continue readingThe Ronettes: So Young
Rapid spider
‘It’s absolutely rapid,’ exclaims the proud Northern owner between burps (his, not the spider’s). It’s not often you hear someone call a spider ‘sweetheart’, but this is a real enthusiast.
The Tymes: Wonderful! Wonderful!
The music was written by Sherman Edwards and the lyrics by Ben Raleigh. It was first released by Johnny Mathis as his debut single in 1956. It reached No 14 … Continue readingThe Tymes: Wonderful! Wonderful!
Simon and Garfunkel: America
This was written by Paul Simon and appeared on the duo’s fourth studio album Bookends, released in 1968. It was released as the B-side of the single For Emily, Whenever I May Find … Continue readingSimon and Garfunkel: America
Matthews Southern Comfort: Woodstock
This was written by Joni Mitchell to commemorate the 1969 festival and three versions were released in 1970. The first was by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and appeared on … Continue readingMatthews Southern Comfort: Woodstock
Herman’s Hermits: My Sentimental Friend
Thanks to Andy Marshall for reminding me of this 1969 number. It was written by Geoff Stephens and John Carter and produced by Mickie Most. It reached No 2 in … Continue readingHerman’s Hermits: My Sentimental Friend
The Orlons: Don’t Hang Up
The Orlons had three big hits in the US: The Wah-Watusi and Don’t Hang Up, both in 1962, and South Street in 1963. Only Don’t Hang Up made any impact in Britain, reaching No 39. It got to … Continue readingThe Orlons: Don’t Hang Up
The Ribbons: Ain’t Gonna Kiss Ya
This was written in 1962 by P J Proby under his real name James Marcus Smith. The first recording was by the Ribbons which reached No 81 in America in … Continue readingThe Ribbons: Ain’t Gonna Kiss Ya
Otter spotters
THERE’S been some quiet excitement among the walking fraternity in the village recently because there are otters in the Ribble. They are thought to live under a pump house on … Continue readingOtter spotters