Simon Cheetham/Disco Students

Simon Cheetham accepting the Friars Heroes Award, Aylesbury, October 2009:

Why? Simon is an amazing man. Artist, musician and published author. He has also appeared at Friars four times, in different guises but the Disco Students remain the best outlet for Simon's unique lyrical take on life and it's hard to believe that Simon's appearances at Friars before the 40th anniversary gigs go back to 1978. We were delighted to be able to say that Simon is the fourth local artist to be honoured and we're very happy to do so. Take a bow.

Simon Cheetham: Obviously, surprised and honoured to receive the Friars Heroes award - good to meet so many people from my musical past. The Friars appearance has certainly galvanised the Disco Students, and I'm in the process of writing a load of new material.

Simon's Friars appearances with Heartbeat, The Blood Oranges and The Disco Students