THE tune is over, but the memories linger on! Final notes on a 'one song' volunteer vocalist from the 1950s, who delighted dancers at the old St Helens Co-op Ballroom, are sounded by readers Mick Maleedy and T. Gornall.
The stocky, crop-headed crooner, noted for his unique after-ale rendition of the bluesy old standard, Georgia, accompanied by the resident Bert Webb band, is at last firmly identified for us by Mick, from Carnegie Crescent, Sutton, as having been Charlie Billington from Leach Lane.
"He was my sister's brother-in-law", explains Mick, "and believe me he knew more than that one song." Charlie came from a singing background, his Wigan father having sung semi-pro.
T. Gornall recalls Charlie working in the rolled plate department at Pilks sheet works, and adds: "He was a real character."
CERTAINLY sounds it!
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article