Legends of the Edge

Above: Joe Beard, Malcolm Robinson, Paul Walker & Karen Pfeiffer

Legends of the Edge is a celebration of some of the myths, legends and stories from that mysterious, ancient and rocky escarpment in Cheshire, known as The Edge of Alderley.

In 1980 Poynton-based musician, songwriter and artist, Joe Beard*, brought together a set of his songs based around the rocky escarpment known as The Edge of Alderley. Realising that a strong narration was needed to support the stories the songs were telling, more of his songs were added, and the Gothic Folk Opus/Suite, ‘Legends of The Edge’ was born.

It was performed at many festivals and other venues, receiving praise in The Guardian and City Life Magazine and broadcast twice on BBC Radio.

Joe moved down to Tamworth where he became a regular performer at Tamworth Folk Club. In 2023 ‘Legends of The Edge’ was revived and performed by Joe, Paul Walker & Karen Pfeiffer with Malcolm Robinson as narrator. It was given a great receptions and received many favourable reviews. Now the band are bringing it back to ‘home turf’.

Friday, 30th May, 2025 at St Philip & St James, Church Lane, Alderley Edge SK9 7QE.

Tickets £12.00 available on Eventbrite HERE

A glass of wine and light refreshments are included in the admission price.

*In the 1960’s, Joe was a founder member of the infamous jug band The Purple Gang, remembered for their 1967 single Granny Takes A Trip which was promptly banned by the BBC. Justifying the ban, the BBC controller at the time commented: “. . . a song with a dubious title designed to corrupt the nation’s youth – and a band that boasts a warlock for a singer will not be tolerated by any decent society . . .”

Joe’s biography of the band, Taking the Purple – the extraordinary story of The Purple Gang . . . and all that!, recalls what life was l in those far off days!