WC APRIL 18
Monday got off to a great start with a trip to London to interview one of TV’s fast-rising young actors – Ruby Bentall, who plays Minnie, the maid, in Larkrise To Candleford. She’s great company, full of life and as enthusiastic, off screen, as her character in Larkrise. I completed a double later in the afternoon by interviewing the legendary Billy Ocean. What a gent!!! He once came to the Isle of Wight, as a youngster, and got seasick on the way home. He swears the sea was rough but the London West Indian party did have the odd glass of wine or two!!!!
Had a great trip to Eastbourne on Wednesday to interview one of the real nice guys of showbiz – Leslie Grantham.In real life he’s a gent and a far cry from Dirty Den. Saw him on stage at the delightful Devonshire Park Theatre in a very funny Dad’s Army play. He was perfect as Private Walker the Spiv. Les is a very hospitable person and is still so popular.
Took the final master copy CDs, thanks to Tom Stroud, into the Island CD’s pressing plant in readiness for their launch on May 8. The covers and inlays were beautifully designed by one of my closest friends, Paul Shutler. Its the first time he has ever undertaken anything like this – and he carried on despite being unwell.
Saw a strange comedy thriller at the Niton Village Hall on Friday. This was real village theatre with a very tiny stage, enthusiastic actors and a pocket set.
I’m currently reading Joe Longthorne’s fascinating autobiography. He mentions a blind country singer from his early days in Hull – and he’s actually an Islander. Ian Attrill will be featured in Joe’s interview on Sunday.