Character lost

It was sad to read of the passing of one of Newark’s well-known characters, John Bingham.

I remember John as a friend of my son, Simon Burgon. They were both members of the band The Waiting List, founded by John in 1987.

The band comprised John Bingham (guitars and vocals) Simon Burgon (vocalist) Phil Shorthouse (bass guitar) Steve Frisby (guitars) and Anni (drum machine).

They were a true indie band, producing their own music, lyrics, artwork and photography — aided and inspired by many friends.

The first single was released in 1987, a flexi-disc, of the self-penned Metroland and Dorians Face, and in 1988 a three-track cassette was released called Innocence And Poppy Seeds.

In 1989, they went vinyl, releasing an EP called Three Ghosts, on Rutland Records.

All were reviewed in the Newark Advertiser’s Street Beat section.

John was also involved in the management of the Palace Theatre, and was a familiar figure about town.

He once described some of his lyrics as depressing. “Basically because I write most of the stuff, and I’m generally miserable,” he said.

Music was his main interest, and he had many friends who I am sure will mourn his passing.

RIP John. Also remembering Simon Burgon — maybe creating some indie music in another life.

The strapline on their recording Startrippers was “Be young…be foolish..but be angry.” Nuff said. — Val Newsum, Westfield Lane, Collingham.