The Mill Hill gathering was fantastic, many fans attended and it was so nice to see some new faces. Many thanks to Mags Cummings who chauffered Jean Wycherley from Liverpool. Although Jean was not in the best of health her presence made the gathering very special. Not only did Jean give a very emotional speech at the end of the Thanksgiving Service (a replication of the original held in Liverpool during April) Jean later thrilled everyone when she sang one of her own favourite Billy songs "In Thoughts of You". Jean also ran her own raffle for which the takings will go to a charity of her choice. A very special lady indeed.
It was also great to see two of the BFITOY's honorary members Mr Frank Bull and Mr Tony Read (Billy's last Personal Manager)
A phone call was made to Albie who unfortunately could not attend due to ill health but he was in good spirits and after apologising for his absence wished everyone his best and to have a great afternoon.
My thanks go to all who attended making the day a great success and to Jenny Warwick who organised the replication of the Thanksgiving Service.
Many thanks also to Colin Paul who had made the journey from Manchester, he was terrific as he sang so many of Billys hits and had everyone joining in. He also made an official presentation of the award in recognition of the combined sales in excess of 200.000 of the recent His Wondrous Story CD and DVD. Later Colin opened the floor for individuals to sing their own favourite Billy song and several took this opportunity.
Hopefully Billy's music and memory will last for many more years to come with gatherings as good as this. (Vic England.)
MILL HILL GATHERING SEPTEMBER 2008
