Chris Curtis (real name: Christopher Crummey) was drummer in sixties pop act The Searchers.



Chris was the Searchers' original drummer, backing vocalist and “front man” from when they turned professional in late 1962 until he left in April 1966. He was replaced by John Blunt.



In 1967, Curtis reached number four in the UK with Let's Go To San Francisco, recorded under the alias of The Flowerpot Men.



He then formed Roundabout - the band that went on to become Deep Purple - with his brother Dave, though both dropped out long before the group hit the big time.



Curtis produced records for other performers, notably Paul and Barry Ryan, but his music career faltered and he eventually took a job in the civil service.



After ill-health forced him to retire, he made a belated return to performing and recently sang with charity group The Merseycats.



Curtis died on Monday 28 February, 2005 at the age of 63 after a long illness.