The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

It is with some sadness that I report the passing of our friend, Barry, familiar to many here in the British forum as "Phono 48", on 28th July 2024.

Barry was quite active in this forum as well as other related hobby forums ("UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration" - username: Audio1950) and was always willing to share advice and information freely whenever he could. Barry lived in Whittlesey, near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire and I did manage to drive the "epic" journey across country to his place once when I bought several machines off him. He was as friendly and hospitable in person as anyone I've met in this hobby through the years.

R.I.P. Barry and my condolences to your partner and family.

This is sad news indeed. Barry was a gentleman and we will miss him. May he rest in piece.

Indeed he was very helpful and a nice person. May he rest in peace.
Was he the same Barry A. Williamson from 'Phonoservice' in Liverpool, who retired from business some years ago?

Inigo wrote: Thu Aug 15, 2024 5:03 am Indeed he was very helpful and a nice person. May he rest in peace.
Was he the same Barry A. Williamson from 'Phonoservice' in Liverpool, who retired from business some years ago?

No, Barry W. died a long time ago. Ken Priestley bought out Barry Williamson's stock of parts and spares thereafter - that could be 15-20 years ago now!

Oh, this was very sad news....
I have been mostly offline for the last few months, due also partially to death in my closest family, but have been checking the forum most days without participating in writing.
Barry helped me a lot during my initial period on the forum, and also later on. We also had some friendly contact by pm. His knowledge, friendly advice and suggestions, was always very welcome. I have learned a lot from his help, that I do my best to pass on to others I meet in my hobby. It is an important part of the legacy !
I unfortunately never had the possibility to meet Barry in person, mainly because I live in Scandinavia.
Rest in peace, Barry, and I am sure there is a good gramophone with plenty of good records for you on the other side....
You will certainly be missed.....
-Martin-

That's very sad news. Not only Barry was a nice chap, but he was also very knowledgeable, helpful and generous.

I have exchanged many messages with him in 2018, when I was rehauling my Decca Salon 130. Not only he first gave me a missing clip by mail (and he didn't even want to be reimbursed for shipping costs!), but later he let me know about and join a group-purchase of a scrap 130, about which each fellow was interested in different parts. I also happen to live in a country (Italy) that just like Scandinavia is definitely out of the main circle of this hobby, and it may be hard for others to understand how Barry made me feel considered. Oh how many fond memories the mere mention of that rehaul and his help bring back!

May you rest in peace, dear mate, and may the horns of heaven play your favourite tunes.

Oh, no! Very sad to read this. Barry was an incredibly generous resource. This is a tough loss.

There’s some more info about Barry at this thread: viewtopic.php?t=59482