Rick E. Darne and the Toplins

Members

Formed in Chester, Cheshire as The Overlanders.

Changed their name several times, first to Richard Dee And The Dee-Fenders, then Rick E. Darne and The Dee-Fenders, and finally Rick E. Darne And The Toplins after winning 'Toplin Beat Group Contest', sponsored by the Rael-Brook shirt company, the heats and semi-final of which were held at The Cavern in Liverpool in 1964. The final was held at the Tower Ballroom, New Brighton, Cheshire on 10th August 1964 featuring twelve groups. While the judges made their decision there was a performance by The Rolling Stones. The other finalist were Bobby and the Bachelors, The Downbeats, The Hustlers, The Jay-els, The Mark Four, The Johnny Taylor Five, The Tokens, The Top Spots, The Trakkers, The Wyverns, and Dale Young and the Seminoles.

The prize for winning was a recording contract, but they had to change the group name to The Toplins. 

UK Singles

1965 Sleigh Bells/Christmas Message                                                                                 Unicord UP 663

   (Credited to Rick E. Darn and the Toplins)