IMG_0302The Lindisfarne Story comes to Consett I was lucky enough to have tickets to see Ray Laidlaw and Billy Mitchell tell the story of Lindisfarne on Lindisfarne at St Mary’s Church, on the last day of Holy Island’s Festival in June.

 

The atmosphere in the packed church was congenial as islanders and tourists alike shared the experience of a lifetime. Ray and Billy entertained with a unique mixture of chat, familiar classic songs, music and stories, complimented with photographs, video archive and personal reminiscences spanning Tyneside’s favourite band’s career. Brilliant memories of their early music were evoked as the story unfolded and the audience sang along in unison, enjoying every minute. I have vivid memories of the early days when I was sixteen of listening, dancing and singing my heart out to ‘Lady Eleanor’,’Clear White Light’ and ‘We Can Swing Together’. Now at nearly sixty years of age my renditions are slightly more subdued but just as enjoyable.

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Ray and Billy engaged with their audience, inviting a relaxed comfortable atmosphere in the beautiful ancient parish church. ‘Meet me on the Corner’ and ‘Fog on the Tyne’ rang out among the rafters as we were led into a fantastic moving finale which left me in tears.

 

All too soon it was over but the guys were happy to sign the CD’s they had on sale and pose for photographs. I can honestly say I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. I would highly recommend anyone who enjoys music and a great night out to see this show at Consett Empire on Saturday 31st October 2015.


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