How I Discovered Mojo Club

[Guest les wakefield]

If my memory serves me well, I first met Pete & Geoff because they opened a 'beat' club in Wakefield (Unity Hall) where I saw many groups including Gene Vincent & 'The Undertakers'.

The club was well-attended & successful but for some reason it was going to be closed down. My friends & I were devastated so Pete put on a coach to bring us all to Sheffield to the Mojo. Numbers dwindled eventually - possibly to do wi summer holidays - so then I think they sent a car.

Then we came on the BUS from Wakefield many times. It must have been just evening sessions, at first, but Pete always helped out if we couldn't get home. People were very kind.

Then came the "all-nighters" which for us was a MASSIVE relief as regards travel problems. I remember it being a family 'thing' wi Mum & Dad helping out, not forgetting younger brother Paul who I think was about 15. Was there a younger sister also? Pete was always great as DJ & very generous-always cheerful & a tonic to be with. Coral was lovely too. I met many groups, including Manfred Mann & Wayne Fontana & The Mindbenders (I was in love with Eric Stuart-at a distance-for years) as Pete used to let us go down (through a garden?) to the House where the 'dressing room' was. Fantastic memories, happy times.

To me, Pete Stringfellow was a hero, he provided a much needed outlet for young people at that time. When i find my 'autograph' book, I might be able to add to the guest list but it looks like everyone is on it already! I know that Rod Stewart was the first 'mod' I ever saw & he was quite shy. Steve Winwood also was brilliant, tho so young-still one of my favourites.