He’s a ‘chip off the old block’
DAVE WALKINGTON RETURNS TO HULL
IMy mum’s love for laughter inspired me to become a solo entertainer
T’S NOT too often that the local musician and entertainer David Walkington gets the chance to play local venues as the bulk of his work is usually based in and around the Lincolnshire and Skegness area.
Dave was born into a family full of talented kinfolk growing up down the now demolished Battersea Close in Hull.
It is rumoured that he attended Bransholme High school but even before he left he’d began his career as a drummer aged just 15.
He was a son of one of clubland’s most popular and cherished performers, Ivy Naylor, Dave is best described as “a chip off the old block” and his fondest memories are of the times he spent simply singing with his mum.
She was his number one fan, and in turn he adored her. Whenever she went to his gigs they would take to the stage together and send the audience into fits of laughter.
Dave said: “One of my very early stage appearances included a spell as the resident drummer at The
Princess Royal hospital club on Saltshouse Road were mum worked as resident compere.
“I was backing the guest artists and gained a wealth of experience playing alongside some great players.
“At 16 I joined my first working band, The Dim & Bright comedy show band which featured guitarist Shaun Martin, Bobby Ball look-a-like Ron Featherstone on lead vocals and Colin Jackson on bass guitar.
“We travelled across the country for a couple of years performing a mix of comedy and popular chart hits”.
Dave then went onto form a band Revival with his brother-in-law Jim Crossland and one of his good friends Carl Coxon.
They where a dedicated rock’n’roll covers band playing hits from the likes of Elvis, Eddie Cochran and Chuck Berry touring venues as far afield as Germany and they once provided backing for the charttopping Mungo Gerry at the Tower Nightclub in Hull.
Dave moved to London and spent 17 years where he joined and played in many bands, including the UK’S top Thin Lizzy tribute Live & Dangerous.
They enjoyed massive success and Dave toured across the UK and Ireland performing theatre, Hell’s Angels meetings and Biker Rallies.
Dave added: “When I eventually returned home at the time Keyboard player Terry Bell and my older brother Les, who is also a drummer, were the resident band at the Hessle Ex-servicemen’s Club.
“They suggested that I could have a go as a stand-in compere and working for the first time without my drum kit.
“I really enjoyed my time at Hessle and my mum’s love for laughter inspired me to become a solo entertainer.”
He has his own zany personality and this week local lad Dave Walkington is appearing back at the Hessle Ex-servicemen’s club on Saturday night.
Dave Walkington
AMONG the other gigs of note this week include this afternoon’s Wednesday get-together at The Ryder Club on Coltman Street with guest artist Tracy May alongside resident Ryder compere Ric Owen.
Tonight the local fundraising group The Society of Mice are hosting a show at the Bilton British Legion on Main Road in Bilton from 8pm.
The evening will include live entertainment from the talented members of the Society, all the usual fundraising activities and entry is free.
Also tonight, the female duo Scolds Bridle are appearing at the Acoustic Music club in the Back Room on Hallgate in Cottingham.
Consisting of Sue Bousfield and Liz Moore, Scolds Bridle showcase their interwoven and exquisite harmonies and their relaxed manner of their delivery makes for an intimate and carefully prepared performance with each set crafted to match their audience.
On Friday afternoon Ric Owen is appearing at the Springhead Park Golf Club on Willerby Road in Hull at their weekly afternoon club.
The afternoon runs from 1pm and includes a full afternoon of entertainment, bingo, raffle and everyone is welcome.
On Friday night the local 1960s guitar vocalist Sass is appearing at the Grange pub on Hopewell Road.
On Saturday night the Polar Bear Music Club on Spring Bank in Hull are hosting their very first Jazz Club.
The evening will be hosted by musician Paul Sargeson and it’s not just traditional Jazz that’s on offer. They have some of the finest regional talent playing an array of modern Jazz with an eclectic playlist played throughout the night.
All are welcome to bring an instrument along and join the band on stage. The evening kicks off at 8pm and entry is free.
On Sunday night entertainer Lee Kamen is appearing at The Willows Sports and Social Club on Holderness Road.
■■If you have a festival, fair, afternoon club or special event email dave@sandfield.karoo.co.uk