Despite it all – I’ve done it!

Thank you friends – you have helped me over the finishing line. I’ve smashed the £100 target I set myself and I completed 86 miles. I had wanted to cycle to all my gigs but bad knees, urology contraptions and the weather restricted me – but I did a few! It’s been a hoot really. Also I’ve built this website and will continue to present Mr Sparkler’s adventures.

I’ve secured another “residency” – and what a joy that is. I now have five locations. It’s such a privilege to be invited to do my stuff in people’s homes. I slightly question the credibility of singing “Knees Up Mother Brown” in so many places. However I’ve now been asked to do a bit of Bob Marley! I’ve added a bit of Tommy Steele “Little White Bull” and I’m working on “Ugly Duckling” and “Nellie the Elephant” to add to the animal theme started by “Teddy Bears’ Picnic” and “How much is that Doggie?” Did anyone catch the Brinsley Schwarz reference?

For October I will be presenting my versions of some old and new worship songs. My aim was to present them just me and guitar – but you know me – I can’t resist tinkering with stuff – so there’s likely to be a bit of overdubbing – but edits will be kept to a minimum and software instrumentation kept to a minimum.

Well we’re off on a little jolly up to Leicester and Derbyshire for family treats. This will actually be our annual holiday. Then when we get back – the boiler will be replaced – expensive – but we can keep warm and have showers and baths at will. Thank God the weather has been very mild for the last couple of weeks. Following that I’m booked to have surgery on the prostate. I’ve been catheterised for over a year now. It’s an experience I’ll not forget – however I probably wish I’d never remember! Just like “Knees up Mother brown”!!!

Sending you all my best wishes,
Your old chum,

Roger