Ian was born on the 28th of August 1953 and brought up in the North East of England. He developed his musical talent whilst still at school, inspired by his contemporaries Dave Richardson (Boys of the Lough) and concertina genius Alistair Anderson. He was soon singing and playing in local groups such as Trimrigg before joining the successful band Hedgehog Pie and then the Lindisfarne spin-off band Jack the Lad.

He has toured extensively in the UK and Europe, playing with a wide variety of bands and artists. His musical career has included performances at Cambridge,Edinburgh and Reading Festivals, as well as appearances on the The Old Grey Whistle Test, BBC Radio One In Concert and Folk on Two.

Ian joined Aiken's Drum some twenty-eight years ago as a stand-in and, despite his better judgement, he has been the longest serving non-member ever. Since adding his considerable talent and versatility to the band, he has become master of the surprise instrumental break! Ian continues to play with other bands and has appeared on many recordings, mainly in the folk arena.

To read Ian's own more detailed account of his musical pedigree and career, click here.