In July 2001 Simon was asked to auditition by Mike d'Arbo for The Manfred (formaly Manfred Mann). They liked him then offered him a 20 date tour of the U.K with the Manfreds & the Blues Band later that year. Then in May & June of 2002 Simon did a further 40 date U.K. tour with the Manfreds supporting Colin Blunstone, Chris Farlow & Long John Baldry. Here are some photos of the tour.

Rob Townsend, Marcos Cliff, Mike Hugg, Mike d'Arbo, Long John Baldry, Chris Farlow, Paul Jones Colin Blunstone, Tom McGiuness & Simon Currie.
Nottingham
Simon with the Manfreds
The "Big Solo" at Leciecter Town Hall