Attic Folk Club mourn for David Davidson, 80

Aged 80, David passed away last Saturday in Chesterfield Royal Hospital.

It doesn't seem it but it is more than a decade since David launched the Attic Folk Club, which now meets at Club Chesterfield.

And for the last 11 years he has ensured a high quality of guests at the monthly club, often resulting in House Full signs going up at the club.

Of David's many qualities, the one which stood out most for me was his enthusiasm for folk music.

He had a real love of live music and Chesterfield became wealthier for his contribution.

The club's next session is tonight, when guests will be Marie Little with support provided by blues singer Tony Portlock.

Said fellow supporter of the Attic, John Reedman: "Only time will tell if his legacy to the folk world and Chesterfield cultural scene in general, can continue without his ideals, energy and dogged determination.

"For David the reasons for a Folk Club in Chesterfield were because 'music matters' and that by inviting well known artists you could attract a proper audience which allowed unknown and up and coming artists to learn and grow.

"For a number of years he has suffered poor health and despite heart problems and a car accident has struggled to attend each and every concert as the 'man in charge' despite all of the pleas to stay at home and recover properly.

David is survived by his wife Margaret and his son Sean.

David was always very much the man in charge at the Attic but John added: "There is a strong wish for the club to continue and there is more than one on the team who can take it forward to see that David's vision and policies are not lost."

n SLIP on Don McLean's latest album and it's like inviting an old pal you've not seen for years to come round for a chat.

The songs jump out with a back-slapping greeting - not just his self-penned block busters such as Vincent and American Pie but also for the covers which came to life under his touch.

Don McLean will appear at Sheffield City Hall on Sunday (Oct 14). Tickets (22.50 and 29.50) on 0114 2 789 789 or oat www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk

The man credited with creating the English folk guitar sound and style, Davey Graham is at Sheffield Memorial Hall on Tuesday (Oct 16). David Michael Gordon Graham picked up the guitar at the age of 12 and has based his life around a total mastery of the instrument ever since.