RUSS CONWAY - NEWHAVEN FETE EARLY 1960s
Almost meeting Russ Conway
By Andy Gilbert
This pic is from a town fete held at Grays Field, Western Road, where Grays Infants School now is. I am the little cherub over by the ropes in the double breasted coat. (Everyone say 'Aah'!) I'm standing in front of my Grandmother, who had taken me along that afternoon. From the fact that I'm wearing a Southdown School cap, and am still knee-high to a grasshopper, I'd say that I was about 5, so the year is possibly 1962.
The fete had been opened by the star guest, Russ Conway, seen having a cuppa. I was already mad about music and a Russ Conway fan, so we were queuing up to get his autograph. A few moments later, I was stung by a bee. I can remember it hurting like mad! My Grandmother took me to the first aid tent, where I was seen by one of the District Nurses, Sister Fordyce, I think. She put something on the sting and sent me home to rest. Alas, I never did get that Russ Conway autograph, but I still like his music.
Does anyone remember the year. Or are you perhaps in the photo?
Russ Conway at the Newhaven Fete
Unknown, possibly local press.