Today I read of the death of Tom Alexander. Tom was one half of the singing duo, The Alexander Brothers. He and brother Jack, who died in 2013, had a musical career spanning over 50 years. They were awarded the MBE for services to entertainment. They took their brand of Scottish folk music across the world including Canada, the United States, New Zealand and Australia including a performance at the Sydney Opera House. They also co-starred with Shirley Bassey at the London Palladium in the 1960s.

Tom and Jack were born and raised in Cambusnethan, Lanarkshire. Their parents were James Alexander and Helen Armit. Their maternal grandmother was Elizabeth Keenan. Her sister was my great granny, Ellen Keenan. Elizabeth was one of ten siblings. I believe there was a rift in the family and the sisters drifted apart. I never met Tom or Jack but I knew of a family connection and as a child I often heard their music played in our house. Funnily it was my dad who enjoyed their music. I had actually assumed the relationship was on his side.

Below are a couple of record releases. Some great song titles!