Heavy Load were an English punk rock band, described by ''The Sunday Times'' in 2009 as "possibly the most genuinely punk band touring today". Its members met at Southdown Housing, a

non-profit A nonprofit organization (NPO) or non-profit organisation, also known as a non-business entity, not-for-profit organization, or nonprofit institution, is a legal entity organized and operated for a collective, public or social benefit, in co ...

assisted-living community for people with mental health issues and learning disabilities, and were a mix of service users and staff. The band composed the theme for the BAFTA-nominated film '' Cast Offs'' and is itself documented in the film ''Heavy Load''. The band were also the founders of the charity Stay Up Late, a campaign seeking to improve the social lives of people with learning difficulties by calling for more flexible staff hours. Stay Up Late is a national charity promoting full and active social lives for people with learning disabilities. Heavy Load split in September 2012 with a final gig in London's

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square ( ) is a public square in the City of Westminster, Central London, laid out in the early 19th century around the area formerly known as Charing Cross. At its centre is a high column bearing a statue of Admiral Nelson commemo ...

as part of the Paralympic festivities. Simon Barker died suddenly on 10 August 2017.

Band members

* Simon Barker, vocals * Jimmy Nichols, guitar and vocals * Paul Richards, bass * Mick Williams, guitar and vocals * Michael White, drums

Albums

References

External links

* * {{Authority control English punk rock groups English musical quintets