9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Tributes pour in for Edinburgh showman who was performing into his 80s
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info
Tributes have been pouring in after an Edinburgh musician and 'legend' passed away.
Shorty Rogers, otherwise known as Ronnie Woodbridge, was known in and around the capital for over 60 years. No stranger to the stage, Shorty was also known for high kicks and energetic performances well into his later years.
He passed away at the age of 84 on Tuesday, at the Western General Hospital. His son Richie branded his dad a 'big personality', and said he was 'so lucky to have had a father like him'.
Shorty was the original lead vocalist with Liverpool band The Searchers back in the '60s. According to locals, he was
Just after 3pm on Tuesday, Shorty's son Richie shared a post online following his fathers passing.
He said: "This Morning my dad Shorty Rogers passed away peacefully at the Western general hospital.
"I am heart broken losing not just my dad but my best pal. Love you and will forever miss you. I feel so lucky to have had a father like him.
Sign up for Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox
"He was a one off who loved life, music and people. Always had time to listen and speak to folk and share his jokes and stories. It's a hard time losing someone as big in personality as my dad. It has left a massive hole in my life."
Locals have been sharing touching tributes online since his passing.
Scottish songwriter Ali Wilson posted on X: "Very sad to hear that one of Edinburgh's best loved showmen has died.
"Shorty Rogers AKA Ronnie Woodbridge, originally from Liverpool, has been a regular on the local scene for the past 60+ years. A lovely, funny, rockin' frontman, who I've shared a stage with many times."
Another post read: "So sad to hear of Shorty Rogers passing, a true legend."
Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
A second said: "Local legend, Shorty Rogers (Ronnie Woodbridge) has passed away this morning. Much love to the family. Great memories, RIP big man."
A third added: "RIP Shorty Rogers. Heart felt condolences to his boys and the rest of the family."
Another shared: "If ever gentleman needed defined that was Ronnie.
"A really decent and beautiful man. His talent and zest for life were legendary.
"His many outfits were spot on and his take on some comedians was fabulous. Still able to kick his height until recently."
