THERE'S a "Cumberland Gap" in the music world following the death of one of the biggest influences in modern music - Lonnie Donegan.

Thanks to his infuence skiffle groups, complete with easily accessible washboards and tea chests, were formed in schools and front rooms throughout Leigh.

He was one of my first heroes of pop and was never off the turntable when I got my Dansette in 1957.

Another sad loss to the music world and for all fans of the 50s!