The melodeon player pictured above on Boxing Day 2011 is Doug Adams: stalwart of southeast London’s Blackheath Morris Men and Fowlers Molly dance troupe.

Doug died yesterday. Peacefully, I’m told, after being ill with cancer.

Beyond that I can tell you little about Doug, for I didn’t know him well. But I had a lot of time for this gentle giant from Devon with a roughed-edged playing style, sharp wit and fondness for English ale. We would see each other at Morris dance events, and I would always make a point of chatting with Doug between sets. Doug was a lovely chap, and there are many who will mourn his passing.

RIP Doug Adams – folk musician and ale drinker.