Born in Liverpool in 1942, Frank Murphy (1942-2025) saw many of the city’s club bands that eventually became household names including The Beatles.

After 8 years in London Frank moved back to Runcorn in 1970 where he started out selling pop-posters and t-shirts and running clothes boutiques in Runcorn Shopping City and in Widnes called ‘Banjo’ and Shady Grove in the old town. Following a few ups and downs in this time ‘Frailers’ was born in 1983.

Starting with 3 guitars and a few music books, Frank went on to specialise in old American guitars and banjos where he was one of the very few shops in the UK to be able to supply genuine vintage instruments. Frailers started selling to local bands and now his stock has sold across the globe with many famous names amongst his customers, Martin Simpson, Pete Doherty, Miles Kane, Rory Gallagher, Eric Idel from Monty Python, Alex Turner from The Arctic Monkeys and Jamie Webster to name but a few. They came not only for the range of guitars but, to converse with Frank, the font of all guitars and banjo knowledge. Immersing themselves in the unique environment, enhanced by memorabilia with over 600 items people often just pop in to read the walls, event posters, price lists from the 30s and just experience the true musical heritage in the shop.

Mark Radcliffe the DJ and presenter has been a regular customer, introduced Noddy Holder and Roy Wood to Frailers.

Frailers is known to be Billy Connolly’s favourite banjo shop having been introduced by folk legend Mike Harding, quoted as saying, ‘I love this shop. I’ve never seen so many Martins in one place.’

‘Frailer’ refers to a technique or effect that alters the sound of a guitar string and a particular style of banjo playing which is traditional in the Appalachian Mountains in the USA.

Frank’s love of music came from his childhood where he saw The Beatles before they were well known at The Cavern Club. He visited America over 100 times just to visit guitar shows. Right up until his passing in April 2025 Frank still worked 50 hours a week in Frailers because he enjoyed every day and genuinely loved his job and what he did.

The announcement of Franks death in April 2025 concluded with this fitting statement, ‘His passion for Frailers, unwavering work ethic and his genuine kindness will be remembered by all. Frailers Will Remain Open As Usual.’