Tony Banks was at the forefront of the soul music scene in Leeds long before the Central. I believe he dj'd at the Three Coins which was before my time but was a legendary mod club in Leeds, pre-dating both the Central and the BeeGee...
I was lucky enough to go to his house on several occasions..His was a record collection from Heaven.. His back room was fitted floor to ceiling on all 3 walls with shelves...At that time the top tunes were the UK Stateside, Columbia, Pye Int. stuff etc...He would say pick a tune..Incredibles -'Theres nothing Else To Say'..was massive at the time. UK issue, UK demo and U.S import!!! he had all 3 filed together. and so it went on .Whatever big tune you said, 3 copies would appear! Major Lance on UK Columbia..the same! I used to try persuading him he couldnt play all 3 so I should have them..not a prayer.. I lost touch with him for a number of years, apparently he was burgled and all his records were taken..sad.
I used to travel down to the Torch in his car, I'd sell the TB SuperSoul pressings of Jimmy Thomas inside the Torch as way of paying my fare..If anybody bought one in the Torch, you got it from me.
Yes he could rabbit though..Still loved the guy. I wish he could be at the Central re-union..
it was a very good scene in Yorkshire around the early 70's yes..you'd be surprised how many of the old guys are still around too...