WC APRIL 11.
The week got off to a great start with a Monday visit to the home of Vince Hill, a good friend for over 30 years, on the banks of the River Thames. He gave me a brilliant interview and Bertie and myself stayed for lunch and a good day was had by all. We have had an invite to go back. Vince, who has recovered from two serious illnesses, and his wife Annie, are such a lovely couple and great hosts. A day to remember and nice to meet his son, Atholl, for the first time. I told him how his birth, 39 years ago, had changed the lives of my late wife, Heather, and myself. All will be revealed in the interview along with a few surprise stories, including the Royal who really fancied him.
Have begun working on my Easter Special, featuring the music of Genesis, Mike and the Mechanics and Roachford. My guests are Mike Rutherford and Roachford.
The Curtain Up Theatre Group from the West Wight deserve much praise for their production of I Remember You, the story of songwriter Johnny Mercer. It was not an easy show to perfect and they can look back with satisfaction. I did admire Bob Everson, who played Mercer. He was stricken down with real throat problems and his songs were shared around by other cast members. It was quite amazing how he even turned up to perform.
Saw one of the finest shows I have seen on the Island for a very long time on Saturday night. It was Lesley Garrett and the choirs at the Isle of Arts Festival. What a night of entertainment! Lesley was in superb form and got a much deserved standing ovation. A stunning performance, with her usual fun in between songs. Loved all the four choirs who gave so much pleasure to the capacity house. Their choice of songs made it such a memorable night. Lesley also sang songs with three of the choirs. I didn’t want to leave – it was that good.