eddie uttley
I am deeply saddened to write that Eddie Uttley, master luthier and great friend to all George Formby lovers, has passed away. I think of Eddie as a man who touched so many lives within our Society and at the Blackpool conventions — through his friendship, his unique skills, and his willingness to offer advice to anyone who sought his help with their instruments. There cannot be many instruments connected to the GFS that Eddie did not handle, improve, or restore in some way, such was the depth of his skill and knowledge. Whilst all players associated with the George Formby Society were aware of his rare talents in banjo-ukulele restoration and set-up work, Eddie was also widely respected in the guitar world for creating many stunning, hand-crafted and unique electric guitars for grateful musicians far and wide. Speaking personally, Eddie and Dale supported me and Kathryn throughout the eleven years we have been involved with the GFS Shop. They would visit our home and spend many an afternoon with us before selecting a bulk order of calfskin vellums to take away. Eddie knew perfectly well where we sourced our vellums and could easily have obtained them more cheaply by going direct — but the thought never crossed his mind. He and Dale left our home knowing they were helping the funds of the GFS Shop, and that generosity meant a great deal to us. Around 2019 or 2020, Eddie pursued an idea that had come to him in a dream: a Gibson-style banjo-uke featuring a unique fibreglass pot that could withstand the bumps and scrapes of everyday use. The Uttley Dreamer was born — colourful, beautifully set up, and hugely popular among many players. I am immensely proud of my own Uttley Dreamer in Safari Red. I cannot ever recall Eddie being anything other than cheerful, warm and friendly. He and his lovely wife, Dale, were a truly devoted couple. I know that Eddie did so much work both for the GFS and for many others without even making a charge, such was his generosity and kindness. Eddie’s skills and friendship will remain a talking point within the GFS, and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of calling him a friend. On behalf of all members of the George Formby Society, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Dale and the entire family. Peter Pollard 19/11/2025
EDWIN AND DALE - A DEVOTED COUPLE
EDDIE WITH ONE OF HIS BEAUTIFUL GUITAR CREATIONS
I am deeply saddened to write that Eddie Uttley, master luthier and great friend to all George Formby lovers, has passed away. I think of Eddie as a man who touched so many lives within our Society and at the Blackpool conventions — through his friendship, his unique skills, and his willingness to offer advice to anyone who sought his help with their instruments. There cannot be many instruments connected to the GFS that Eddie did not handle, improve, or restore in some way, such was the depth of his skill and knowledge. Whilst all players associated with the George Formby Society were aware of his rare talents in banjo-ukulele restoration and set-up work, Eddie was also widely respected in the guitar world for creating many stunning, hand-crafted and unique electric guitars for grateful musicians far and wide. Speaking personally, Eddie and Dale supported me and Kathryn throughout the eleven years we have been involved with the GFS Shop. They would visit our home and spend many an afternoon with us before selecting a bulk order of calfskin vellums to take away. Eddie knew perfectly well where we sourced our vellums and could easily have obtained them more cheaply by going direct — but the thought never crossed his mind. He and Dale left our home knowing they were helping the funds of the GFS Shop, and that generosity meant a great deal to us. Around 2019 or 2020, Eddie pursued an idea that had come to him in a dream: a Gibson-style banjo-uke featuring a unique fibreglass pot that could withstand the bumps and scrapes of everyday use. The Uttley Dreamer was born — colourful, beautifully set up, and hugely popular among many players. I am immensely proud of my own Uttley Dreamer in Safari Red. I cannot ever recall Eddie being anything other than cheerful, warm and friendly. He and his lovely wife, Dale, were a truly devoted couple. I know that Eddie did so much work both for the GFS and for many others without even making a charge, such was his generosity and kindness. Eddie’s skills and friendship will remain a talking point within the GFS, and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of calling him a friend. On behalf of all members of the George Formby Society, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Dale and the entire family. Peter Pollard 19/11/2025
EDWIN AND DALE - A DEVOTED COUPLE
EDDIE WITH ONE OF HIS BEAUTIFUL GUITAR CREATIONS
eddie uttley