THE Soapsuds were a popular Oxford band and were in great demand.

They entertained audiences over a wide area for more than 15 years.

Our interest in them was sparked by a letter from reader Val Faulkner, of Bicester, who asked if Bob Hodson (aka Ukelele Bob) played with Professor Washboard and the Soapsuds.

Christine Carter, whose husband Nick was also a member, wrote to confirm this fact.

Now Mrs Carter, of Rippington Drive, Old Marston, has supplied this picture of the band.

She writes: “They look very sober in this one, but it is the only good one not stuck in the album.

“There are others of them dressed as tramps, cowboys, schoolchildren, college boys, and in drag, for the various gigs they played.

“I didn’t go out with them, but I’ve so many memories of what went on in preparation for these engagements. We had so much fun.”

Her husband played piano and later the keyboards, while Bob Hodson played the ukekele.

The other members were Freddie Giles (aka Professor Washboard), who played the washboard, and Eddie Vines, the singer and bass player.

As you can see from the picture, their backdrop was on the soapsuds’ theme, giving free advertising to some of the leading washing powders of the day.

Mrs Carter recalls: “They started in 1954 and were popular over a wide area.

“They changed their name after a few years to the Oxford Show Band.

“They played together for 15 years or more. They were happy days.”

Any memories of The Soapsuds to share with readers?