Bolitho sings

Some months ago, a new CD was released, which features twenty tracks in both Cornish and English, from the late great John Bolitho.

The CD, titled Bolitho Sings, is a compilation put together by Merv Davey and An Daras. It includes John's trademark Maggie May, Bro Goth Agan Tasow and An Rosen Wyn (The White Rose), as well as The Lower Lights, Calm is the Sea and Danny Boy.

I had been meaning to buy the CD for quite awhile. I finally picked it up last week and it is a real treat. I would recommend it to everyone – especially those people who knew John and heard him perform in the past.

Reviewing the CD in the Western Morning News, Simon Parker described John’s commitment to Cornwall as “beyond compare,” adding “mention John Bolitho to anyone who met him and they will invariably beam with pleasure at the memory of a friendly, generous and much-loved Bude man.” Quite right.

A brilliant singer, John performed the length and breadth of Cornwall, as well as further afield. He was also a leading member of Mebyon Kernow – the Party for Cornwall for many years, representing his home area on North Cornwall District Council and contesting the North Cornwall seat in the 1997 General Election. He was also the Grand Bard of the Cornish Gorseth between 2000 and 2003, and involved with a wide range of cultural groups across Cornwall.

Bolitho Sings costs £11 (including postage and packing) and is available from Heather Bolitho at 4 Grenville Gate, Poughill, Bude. Cheques should be made payable to Heather Bolitho.

Why not treat yourself and buy the CD!