In 1935 he moved to Chelmsford, Essex, following a promise of work made by his cousin. he served  his apprenticeship at Hoffman Engineering, Chelmsford,

and became a Toolmaker. Whilst in Chelmsford, he 

met and courted Nora Barden.

The British Federation of Banjoists, Mandolinists & Guitarists awarded Jack

3rd Place, with a Mandolin Solo, in the Federation Challenge Cup Competition,

29th October 1938. He often said, that had it not been for the fact that the

winner's father was one of the Judges he would have done better.

In 1939 Jack returned to Merthyr to work at Rotax Ltd, Cyfarthfa, Manufacturers 

of Magnetos and Distributors, ETC. for the aircraft industry. In later years Jack

attended a Rotax Toolroom 40th Anniversary Dinner, The Menu shown here was

drawn by Toolroom Ex-colleague and renowned local artist George Hanney .

                              The rear of which was signed by all guests.

During this time Jack's reputation as a guitarist was growing and he soon became a much sought after musician and arranger with local bands.

In December 1952 he moved to 15, Maendy Crescant, Gellideg Estate,  which had just been completed. He lived here for the rest of his life. He eventually became resident guitarist at the Gellideg Social Club, and played there until he resigned in 1976.                                     

Jack seen here at the Gellideg Social Club, On the extreme left is his long time friend Dave Gould.    (See Dave Gould's Guitar Pages)

Jack gave guitar playing lessons during the late 60's and throughout the 70's.

he taught many of Merthyr's musical talent including Owen Money.

In the mid 1970.s Jack, together with his brother Ron Laycock, took up a 

twice weekly gig at the Castle Hotel, Merthyr. On occasion when Ron was 

not available Jack was joined  by either Dave Gould or Scotsman Robbie 

Wallace (Bob Silver).

In 1985 Jack had surgery which affected the rest of his life, but a few days

prior to this operation he was allowed out of hospital to got to a Jazz Club 

in Cardiff, to see American Jazz Guitarist Tal Farlow.