Nick Crump (founder member of the band). Nick passed away in January 2024. We all love him and miss him. The band is keeping his memory going by playing the tunes he composed. Nick's tunes were published in a Tune Book with 56 of his compositions collected over the last 30 years, many played by the band. There are sound files for each tune available as well. To buy one of these books contact the band using the contact form.
Tim Laycock (founder member of the band). Tim plays concertina and melodeon. He grew up in Fontmell Magna near Shaftesbury, and has a lifelong interest in the traditional music and folk culture of Dorset. His most recent publications are Dorset Folk Tales for The History Press, and Any Little Old Song Will Do, songs and dance tunes recorded in Hardy’s Cottage. Tim also directs the New Hardy Players in Dorchester. Follow link to see his own website: www.timlaycock.co.uk
Angela Laycock (founder member of the band). One of my earliest memories is lying in the organ loft and listening to the bass pipes. My father played the melodeon in village bands. I enjoy singing, with a special interest in narrative ballads and Victorian songs. I have also worked as a swimming teacher - so if anyone wants an aqua ceilidh....!
Pete Burnley - Pete is the newest member of the band. He brings with him a wealth of experience as a bass player. He served with the Royal Corps of Signals Staff Band for too many years and is well known on the N Dorset circuit in a free lance capacity. He is truly eclectic, diversifying from orchestral to rock, jazz, big band, reed and brass quintet and now folk. He plays most of the bass instruments namely double bass, tuba, bass guitar and even bass clarinet and has trouble storing them all in his downstairs loo.
Paul Sampson - has been playing guitar for over 50 years (he does stop now and again!) in a range of styles. He's been the band's guitarist for the past 20 years.
Martine Hardy - the youngest member of the band and a great asset with her sensitive playing plus her skill of playing harmonies. She and Iain run a very successful and popular monthly music session called Camelot Music Night at West Camel Village Hall. Link: Camelot Music Night
