The original members, Barrie Sewell (keyboard), Nick Thorburn (guitar), Stuart Somerville (bass), Dave ‘Holly’ Holland (vocals) and John Reed (drums) all hailed from the North East and played extensively in the North West from 1969 until 1971  when the group eventually disbanded.

A very popular close harmony group incorporating comedy, they performed regularly at the Princess and Domino Clubs, The Embassy, Bolton, Burnley and Leigh Casinos and Poco A Poco in Stockport to name but a few. The group would also record several times at the BBC Playhouse studios several tracks in a three hour session which would subsequently be broadcast on the fledgling Radio 1.

There was a good camaraderie amongst the groups at the time, and the clubs seemed to be full every night. The famous ‘doubles’ were always fun when you would play a 10pm spot in one club and then drive somewhere to the other side of town to do a midnight show. The Princess and Domino Clubs were two such places which adopted this system.

Dave Holland left the band in late 1969 and was replaced by Steve Pickering who had established a reputation in the North West under the name Reg James.

A funny story when we were playing the Kingsway Casino in Stockport. On Sundays, the Casino was closed and the owner had a bingo hall which was once a cinema. He used to put the acts booked at the Casino on at the bingo hall on Sunday nights. The stage was very large and being on drums was towards the back of the stage.

We were half way through our act when suddenly the audience (mostly pensioners) got out of their seats and started to run towards the stage. I thought we were going to get invaded, was this Saga Mania?

Being at the back of the stage I hadn't seen the Bingo Hall staff emerge into what had been the orchestra pit at the front of the stage and start serving free pies and peas which were included in the price of admission.

The term 'Pies have come' certainly had a new meaning from that moment on.

John Reed

Hi!  This is Dave Holland (holly) once the lead singer with Toby Twirl. It is great to see old photos of the group. the memories come flowing back.

My wife and I are currently running a pub in my home town of Blyth Northumberland and would love to hear from anyone from the fabulous days of the sixties and would appreciate any old photos.

Dave Holland

Hi

I was lead guitar in the band. Just discovered the site.

I'm living in Tynemouth now and have been retired for over two years. We were a good band and probably deserved better. When I listen to some of the 45s that made the charts at the same time we were recording I find it hard to believe we didn't make it. But it's luck of the draw and we had an absolutely fantastic time trying.

I keep in touch with all of the boys on line, although I haven't been able to contact Holly.  I've been onto his email address at the ' Joiners' Pub but haven't had a reply. If you read this Holly drop me a line. Will write again if any new info pops up

PS I haven't got the originals of any of our records - if anyone knows how I can get them to upload onto my ipod iwould be very greatful.

Nick Thorburn
23/2/09

Despite what you read, I was the original drummer with Toby Twirl and the Shades of Blue, before that. Have kept in touch with Holly but unable to find rest of the band. Nick, if you read this, please get in touch. Mob. 07881 934846  or richjmcconnell@hotmail.com.      Hope to hear from you soon.

Richie
26/4/11

Hi Nicky, we'll have to enjoy another pint in Tynemouth sometime, when I can lend you an original 45 of Back in Time/Harry Faversham to put on your ipod?

Dropped in to see Hollie at the Joiners awhile ago (probably a few years ago??) a pleasant chat although he was running the pub during our visit so the conversation was a bit short?

Jim Routledge
original drummer with The Shades of Blue
22/8/11

Nicky, If you read this in time can you get in touch.(email; richjmcconnell@hotmail.com or 07881934846) I'm having my 65th birthday party at Shiremoor Social Club on Sat 13th October 2012. I'm presently playing drums in a north London band 'Simply Vintage'. We're coming up to Newcastle for my birthday weekend and playing at Shiremoor Club on the Saturday night. Holly has already agreed to join us for a few numbers on the night, and it would be terrific if you could join us too.

If anyone reading this knows Nicky's whereabouts or email etc etc can you either pass this message on or let me know. It would be tremendous to have 3 of the original 'Toby Twirl' together again on stage.

Rich Mc Connell
4/2/12