This Web site recently had an update on a former Rocket Records artist.
Sadly, Fred Wedlock has passed away.
The 67-year-old had pneumonia.
Fred emerged from the English folk scene to enjoy unlikely chart success with the novelty hit single, The Oldest Swinger in Town. His abilities as an all-round entertainer and raconteur in later years led to employment as a television presenter, an in-demand after- dinner speaker and an actor, although it was his proud boast that he had not had a “proper job” in 40 years.
He claimed to have given his first performance at the age of four, singing to pub customers, and to have received sixpence for his troubles.
He landed a Channel 4 television showcase, Wholly Wedlock, a BBC radio series with fellow West Countryman Acker Bilk and presented numerous programmes on Westcountry Television. He also acted at the Bristol Old Vic and with the city’s Ministry of Entertainment theatre company, most recently in December 2009.
His is survived by Sue, his wife of more than 40 years, and two daughters.
