Derby Rock and Roll group 1958 – 1961

as of Oct 1960
Dennis Sleigh: Lead Guitar
Clifford Sleigh: Bass Guitar
Geoffrey Cook: Piano
Alan Jarvis: Rhythm Guitar
Ray Gittins: Drums
Lennie Leonard (Leonard Bull): Vocals

Formed in 1957 by brothers Dennis Sleigh and Clifford Sleigh and Geoff Cook who all went to Bemrose school in Derby. Joined by Alan Jarvis, Ray Gittins and Leonard Leonard they became one of Derby’s hottest Rock and Roll groups. Playing all over Derbyshire they also appeared in London and Manchester and won a rock and roll contest in Derby in September 1960. They then appeared with Emile Ford at the Gaumont in Derby.

from the Derby Telegraph.
Geoff Cook: “I was the pianist in The Skyliners, who were the only local musicians to play with the stars at the Gaumont. “It was an honour. We supported Emile Ford in October 1960. We were included on the bill after our guitarist Dennis Sleigh and I approached the Gaumont manager and the tour promoter and managed to persuade them to let us have a spot.”

Leonard Bull was later known as Paul Newman first with his “Five” and then with “The Hi-Fi’s” and then “The X’Caliburs” with whom he released 3 singles.

Leonard was replaced by Michael Chambers (vocalist) who tragically died in 1961.

A few more Derby groups are mentioned on this page.

Photos from posts by Ken Cook (Geoff’s brother) who later played in Strange Days.

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