THE HART FAMILY

One of the most popular bands in Hartlepool during the 60's were The Hartbeats. Over the years, they underwent a series of personnel changes, but were still a force to be reckoned with. The band leader was George Hart who, along with his brother John, formed the group. After George left the Hartbeats he later teamed up with his wife, Olive, in a duo known as the Two of Hearts.

Then came the Hart Family with John, George, Olive and Julie who won the television show "New Faces" back on September 21st, 1974. Since those days Olive spent almost thirteen years living, and working, in Spain but is now back home in Hartlepool with her family. Julie is still entertaining and is part of an all-girl trio called the Fun Girl Three. Also, on a local note, the "New Faces" programme was presented at this time by Derek Hobson - a former BBC Radio Teesside breakfast show presenter.

According to Barry McGurk (photographed at the bottom) this could be The Hart Family that never was. It was taken in 1976 and was a publicity photograph of the band that never actually performed together. It shows Vic Leighton, Olive Hart, George Hart, Julie Hart and Barry.

The Hart Family's LP "Hart to Heart" was released in 1976 and thanks to Kenny Leighton for providing a copy of the album to us. You can see side one and side two of the disc in the right hand column.

If you'd like to read more details about the credits - and to see who is playing and singing what - click on the image above to see it in a slightly larger size.

This page is dedicated to the memory of George Hart.

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