Swing Commanders At Preston Swingeroo Vintage Dance Hall - 26th August

Friday 26th August 7pm

Preston Masonic Hall
Saul Street
Preston, Lancashire
 
Online tickets from: www.skiddle.com/events/11432160
 
Here's the Swing Commanders in their own words:

"This hugely talented, high-energy Lancashire sextet has wowed listeners and dancers alike through its unique presentation of some of the finest music from the 30s, 40s and 50s, with its array of six specialist musicians, five solo voices and as for instruments – well, we will leave you to count for yourself!

Here is an opportunity to see why sold out notices and standing ovations are regular features of performances by these vibrant international artistes, who have established a reputation as Europe’s top Western Swing band in clubs, theatres, festivals and dance halls.

So, let them take you back in time for a special session of Swing with a champagne sparkle. They really are the cats with the cream of Forties classics, so just sit back or take to the dancefloor and sample the sweet Swing sensation that is - The Swing Commanders!"

Advance tickets are £10, and if there's any left on the door, they're £12.

Hurry, hurry, hurry!

Cafe Of The Month Award For July: Sands Deli, Promenade, Blackpool

Best Kept Secrets is very pleased to announce that its Café of the Month Award for July 2011 has been awarded to the Sands Venue Deli on Blackpool Promenade.

The Sands Deli is open 7 days a week and serves a great range of snacks, meals and drinks throughout the day.  The cooked breakfast is highly recommended - it uses locally sourced fare and really sets you up for the day.

We also especially like the wide range of hot and cold sandwiches, and cakes from which you make up your own preferered lunch or tea.

On Tuesday afternoons the, Sands hosts an afternoon tea dance in the cabaret venue from 2 to 4.30pm with a live band and sumptuous afternoon tea, which comes with little sandwiches, cream scones and a range of gorgeous cakes.  This is just £10 per person and is really worth it for the tea and the music - even if you don't want to dance! 

To find out more about the Sands Blackpool Venue and it's (now) award winning Deli, visit the website at: http://www.the-sands-blackpool.co.uk/

The Best Kept Secrets ‘Café of the Month’ Award is awarded according to various criteria, including friendly service, diversity of menu, cleanliness of establishment and of course taste of produce, not forgetting that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ known as “The Emilie Test”.

To nominate your favourite cafe, drop us a line to paul@bestkeptsecrets.biz

PHOTO CAPTION: Reigning Miss Blackpool Ella Green presents the Cafe Of The Month Award to Sands Venue owner Peter Swann.

Rebellion 2011 Festival Previews With Jennie Russell Smith and Steve Drewett

If you missed our Rebellion Festival preview show on Preston FM on Wednesday evening, you can now "listen again" to what co-organiser Jennie Russell-Smith and Steve Drewett from the Newtown Neurotics had to say.

Just click on the relevant sound icon below to listen.This may may take longer to load if you are using a Mac...



To buy tickets or find out more about the festival, visit the official website at: http://www.rebellionfestivals.com/

THE SANDS VENUE BLACKPOOL CHARITY EVENING FOR BRIAN HOUSE HOSPICE SUNDAY, 7TH AUGUST 2011

The Sands Venue Blackpool will be hosting another fantastic charity night in support of local charity Brian House Children’s Hospice on Sunday, 7th August 2011, as part of their ongoing dedication to the local community.   The event will be hosted by TV and award winning West End star Richard Shelton, best known to millions for playing the role of the murderous Dr Adam Forsythe on ITV’s Emmerdale.

The evening will begin at 7pm with a superb three course meal followed by entertainment from The Sands resident Swing Band accompanied by a host of sensational guest vocalists including TV stars and other celebrity appearances.  Graeme Hawley, famed for playing hapless murderer John Stape in Coronation Street, will be joined by Natalie Anderson who plays Alicia in Emmerdale and also starred magnificently in the West End play “Wicked”.

Other celebrity vocalists taking to the stage to perform Rat Pack and also stage classics include; Robert Cavanah from The Royal, Liam O’Brien previously on Emmerdale, Michelle Hardwick (The Royal) Kirsty Leigh Porter (Emmerdale) and Rachel Leskovac (Coronation Street and Holby City). Travelling all the way from LA is singer-songwriter Mark Arnell who is currently starring on Warner Bros TNT TV show “Memphis Beat” as the singing voice of actor Jason Lee!

Attendees of the event will see these guest singers performing well known and well loved show tunes and also swing classics, accompanied by a 7 piece swing band. There will also be a charity auction and raffle too, with many great prizes to be won such as signed memorabilia and tickets for great days out!

Venue owner, Peter Swann, commented; “We had a great charity night last year raising nearly £4,000 for charity and we are aiming to beat that target this year! This will be a very special evening.”

Incidentally, tickets for Blackpool Gazette readers have been reduced to £29.99, you must quote “GAZPR78” when you book in order to receive this special offer. Usual price is £39.99 including a delicious 3 course meal.  If you have never visited the fabulous Sands Venue in Blackpool you are in for a real treat!

For more information or to make a reservation please call the booking line:  01253 625262.

"In Conversation..." Show Tonight On Preston FM...!

Coming up in our "Best Kept Secrets... In Conversation" Show tonight on 103.2 Preston FM tonight, 7 to 8pm:

• There's a song from Clitheroe swing sensations the Swing Commanders as Peter Riley looks ahead to their Swingeroo date in Preston
• Michael Law tells us all about the Piccadilly Dance Orchestra
• Head coach Dave Anthony talks about the new Fylde Coast Flyers Ice Hockey club in Cleveleys
• Lytham St Annes Ceramic designer Marie Kershaw previews her new exhibition
• We hear all about new teen pop sensations FutureProof from Kiran Marshall
• Manchester singer/songwriter Sam Gray talks about his new album
• Lytham St Annes "Song Doctor" Steve Coe tells the story behind an unknown Francis Rossi song
• Pauline Black from the Selecter talks about her new autobiography "Black By Design" and the band's new album "Made In Britain" and we play an exclusive preview track "Time Of Our Lives".

You can listen to Preston FM on 103.2 FM in the immediate broadcast area or "listen live" worldwide via the internet at http://www.preston.fm/

Miss Blackpool 2011 - Heat 6: Result & Interviews

1st: Sophie Jarvis (right of photo)
2nd: Jessica Bradder (left of photo)

More info: http://www.missblackpool2011.co.uk/

Post-heat reaction from the two finalists can be heard by clicking on the sound icon below:

ART EXHIBITION AT THE HERITAGE CENTRE IN LYTHAM - 2nd - 21st August 2011

Mike Hutchinson, a Chartered Engineer by Profession, has spent most of his working life in the Aircraft Industry.   An Associate Member of the Guild of Aviation Artists, Mike is a representational artist who works in oils for transport subjects and pastel for figurative studies.

Marie Kershaw MA, is a Ceramic Artist based in Ansdell, Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire.  She has a varied background, including teaching arts and crafts to adults and now concentrates mainly on designing and producing her own works of ceramic art.

Marie and Mike have joined forces to present samples of their work in an Exhibition entitled "All sorts and bits and pieces" to be held at the Heritage Centre in Henry Street, Lytham, Lancashire from 2nd to 21st August 2011 - closed on Mondays.  Entry is free so don't miss this rare chance to see samples of Mike and Marie's work.

AFC Blackpool First Pre-season Friendly Match

AFC Blackpool 1 - Skelmersdale 4

Any manager will tell you that the result doesn't really matter in pre-season matches such as these, as they try out new players and work on the fitnees of the returning squad members. The good news is, therefore, that the 1-4 scoreline is pretty much irrelevant but the lessons learnt on the pitch will bear fruit once the season gets under way in earnest. 

It was always going to be a disjointed game with unlimited substitions being allowed - Skelmersdale brought on a completely fresh team at half time while AFC Blackpool chopped and changed throughout and even brought back a couple of players late in the second half who had been taken off earlier.

It was wonderful warm sunny afternoon and the crowd were even treated to a free mini airshow as aircraft landed at nearby Balckpool airport on their way back from the Southport Airshow.

During the course of the game, we had a flyby from the Red Arrows (with vapour trails..!), we had a World War 2 Lancaster bomber, a Hurricane, a Vulcan and a couple of Bi-planes, not to mention the odd commercial jet arrival as well.    

AFC Blackpool are back in action on Tuesday evening away to West Lancashire League side Wren Rovers (7.30pm kick off) and then are at home again on Saturday 30th July for a friendly against Trafford.

Squirtes Gate are at home to Kendal on Tuesday evening and then away to Garstang the following Tuesday 1st August.

For all the very latest North West Counties league news, results and fixtures, check out the official website at: http://www.nwcfl.co.uk/ 

Senior Ice Hockey Returns To The Fylde Coast

Following a gap of over 20 years senior ice hockey will be returning to the Fylde Coast this autumn with the birth of the new Fylde Flyers at the recently opened Sub Zero ice rink in Cleveleys.

There are currently open training sessions for anybody who wants to go along and try the sport and the club is also planning to run junior teams at various age levels, a ladies team and there is also a recreational team.

The Fylde Flyers will be competing in English National League Division 2 North  and home league games will commence in October. Team and matchday sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information call head coach Dave Anthony on  07931577021

We had a chat with Dave about this exciting new venture. You can hear what he had to say by clicking on the sound icon below  (this may take longer to load if you are using a Mac...)

CD Release: Fire On The Floor by Jokers - Available Now

Tracklisting:
1. Fire On the Floor 3:14
2. One Life 2:49
3. World of Bubblegum 2:01
4. Don't Go Baby 3:35
5. They Don't Care 2:20
6. Violence 3:05
7. Blood On the Street 2:24
8. Goodbye Mr. Pink 2:06
9. Joker 1:51 
10. My Week 6.38

Label: http://www.rocketmanrecords.com/


I JoKeR’s nascono come formazione nel marzo del 2006 a Monza, quandoJimmy, Cholo e Dr.Ikyz si incontrano lungo la polverosa strada delrock'n'roll, per dare vita ad un classico power-trio: chitarra, bassoe batteria rispettivamente, con una voce principale e gli altri due afare cori massicci.


Tutti e tre i componenti hanno già moltianni di esperienze musicali alle spalle, sia come grandi appassionatidi musica che come musicisti, avendo militato in svariate band.

Lastoria musicale dei tre musici è molto differente: ognuno porta nelgruppo la sua esperienza e tutto si fonde in un punk-rock'n'rollpotente e rabbioso, con una giusta dose di melodicità checaratterizza i ritornelli e con ritmiche non troppo lineari e maiscontate per il genere.

Da subito i JoKeR's si dedicanounicamente alla composizione di canzoni proprie, fregandosene dietichette, categorie, classificazioni: l'obbiettivo è portare inmusica la propria voglia di suonare e la propria passione per questatribale forma d'arte. Lo sbocco naturale è quindi quello di esibirsidal vivo, mettendosi alla prova con ogni tipo di pubblico,dimostrando la grande carica e il grande impegno che dedicano allapropria musica. Niente altro

Translation coming shortly...!

Louder Than War - John Robb's Punk Rock Disco - 24th July

John Robb will be DJing and hosting 'Louder Than War- John Robb's punk rock disco' this Sunday at Cord Bar Manchester

Entrance is free

from 4 till 11

7 hours of punk rock and associated music from dub to punk to ska to goth to industrial to North African mountain music to post punk and onwards...

facebook page for the night... http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=184738324915041

Miss Blackpool 2011 Heat 5: Results & Interviews

Result:
1st Jessica Simpson (left)
2nd Cassie Lowes (right)

To find out more, visit the website at http://www.missblackpool2011.co.uk/

To hear short interview with Jessica and Cassie, click on the relevant sound icon below (this will take longer if you are using a Mac...):

Swing Commanders at Swingaroo Vintage Dance Hall, Preston - 26th August

Clitheroe based swing sensations the Swing Commanders will be playing a special gig on Friday 26th August for dance night at the Swingaroo Vintage Dance Hall in Preston.

We had a chat with Peter Riley about the band and will be broadcasting this in depth Swing Commanders interview - with music - in our Swing & Blues show on Preston FM on Monday 15th August.  However, you can hear a short preview right now by clicking on the icon below (please note this takes longer to load if you are using a Mac...):


You can find out more about the Swing Commanders by visiting their website here: http://www.swingcommandersupdates.co.uk/index.htm

The Swingaroo official website is here: http://www.swingaroo-vintage-dancehall.co.uk/

and you can read our own review of the Swing Commanders show that we recently saw at The Sands in Blackpool here: http://www.bestkeptsecrets.biz/2011/06/review-swing-commanders-at-sands-venue.html

Rebellion Festival Preview Special On Preston FM - 27th July

Join us for our annual Rebellion Punk festival special show on 103.2 Preston FM on Wednesday 27th July from 4 to 5pm as we look ahead to the event that is celebrating its 15th anniversary and is held from 4th to 7th August at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. 

Featuring exclusive interviews with
co-organiser Jennie Russell Smith
Vice Squad's Beki Bondage
Colleen Caffeine from Choking Susan
Mauri Clash City Rocker
TV Smith & Gaye Advert
The A Heads
Knox from The Vibrators
Steve Drewett from the Newtown Neurotics
and festival newcomer Louise Distras.

There'll be lots of great music as well and Blackpool hotelier Paula Chew will be introducing us to the concept of "punk knitting"...!

You can hear Preston FM on 103.2FM in the local area or worldwide via the internet at: http://www.preston.fm/

CD Release: Culture Shock 3 CD Box Set - Out Now

After the Subhumans split up, Culture Shock arose from the ashes, with a (then) unique reggae/dub/punk sound and political lyrics. This box set includes 3 CD's of all their recorded work remastered for the first time and a booklet of their lyrics and history.

£10 or €12 or $16, postpaid worldwide paypal to bluurgrecords@gmail.com, or send a [uk] cheque to R.Lucas to 37 Faulkland Road, Bath,BA2 3LT, or cash wrapped up well.

Also available from Active Distribution: http://www.activedistribution.org/

Piccadilly Dance Orchestra at the Sands Blackpool - 30th July

Join The Piccadilly Dance Orchestra at the impressive Sands Venue on Balckpool seafront, for an unashamed wallow in pure nostalgia for the lost, magical world of Broadway and Hollywood music from between the wars. Stylish, sophisticated, smooth… The Piccadilly Dance Orchestra recreate the glamour of the Golden Age of popular music, the 1920’s to 40’s, along with a hearty helping of foot-tapping jazz and dance music.

To book tickets for this special not-to-be-missed event, follow this link:
http://www.the-sands-blackpool.co.uk/artists/359/Piccadilly-Dance-Orchestra/1464
 
The Piccadilly Dance Orchestra - whose founder and musical director is singer and pianist Michael Law - are recognised since 1988 as superb entertainment to a very high standard, sought after for concert and cabaret performances as well as private parties and corporate events. From the Charleston and Puttin' On The Ritz of the 1920s through to swing hits of the 1930s and 40s such as Glenn Miller's In The Mood and Pennsylvania 6-5000, The Piccadilly Dance Orchestra play the greatest dance music and the best tunes of the Jazz Age. The PDO played for dancing at The Ritz (4 years) and The Savoy Hotels (6 years).

You can find out more onn their official website at: http://www.pdo.org.uk/

We'll be featuring an interview with Michael Law about the PDO in our "Best Kept Secrets...In Conversation" show on 103.2 Preston FM on Friday 29th July from 7pm but you can hear a short clip NOW by clicking on the sound icon below:

(please note this takes longer to load if you are using a Mac...)

THE RAY TAYLOR SWING BAND SATURDAY, 30TH JULY 2011, 7.30 p.m.

The fabulous, nine-piece Ray Taylor Swing Band, featuring vocalist Jan Munro, will be putting on a "Summer Swing" Show at Goosnargh Village Hall, PR3 2BH on Saturday, 30th July 2011 from 7.30 p.m.

Tickets are £10 per person and supper is included.  So why not switch off the telly, dust off your dancing shoes and go and support live music.

For further information please contact:  0791 561 0334.

PEACEFUL MARCH ALONG BLACKPOOL SEAFRONT IN MEMORY OF SOPHIE LANCASTER

On Saturday, 6th August 2001 from 12 p.m. there is to be a peaceful march along Blackpool Promenade from North Pier to South Pier, organised by the Sophie Foundation, the charity set up in memory of Sophie Lancaster from Bacup.

Sophie died aged just 20 years old on 24th August 2007 after being attacked in a park in Bacup in Lancashire.

The march is being held during Blackpool's Rebellion Festival and the organisers are inviting everyone to come down and take part in the march, which they hope will raise awareness of the Foundation.

Lindsey Appleton explains:  "We would like everyone to come down and take part in this peaceful march. The march is being organised to raise awareness for The Sophie Foundation.  With it being the Rebellion Festival, we think it's a perfect opportunity for people to join together, get more involved and find out about what the Foundation is about.

We want to make the community aware that discrimination is an issue in today's society."

A Facebook group called Peaceful March Along Blackpool Seafront has been set up for this event.

EXHIBITION OF CERAMIC ART AND PAINTINGS - LYTHAM ST ANNES LANCASHIRE 2 - 21 AUGUST 2011

Local ceramic artist Marie Kershaw and artist Michael Hutchinson have joined forces to hold an exhibition in the Heritage Centre, 2 Henry Street in Lytham, Lancashire, FY8 5LE from 2nd August until 21st August 2011.  

Entry to the Exhibition, which is entitled "All sorts and bits and pieces", is free.

Try not to miss this opportunity to see examples of the outstanding work of these two talented local artists.

CABARET NIGHT IN AID OF CHERNOBYL CHILDREN'S LIFELINE

A fun(d) raising cabaret night in aid of Chernobyl Children's Lifeline will be held at the Sitting Goose Inn which is in Lea Lane, Preston, PR4 0RT - Tel. No. 01772 690344 on Saturday, 23rd July 2011.

Starting at 7.30 p.m. and going on till midnight, you can hear the very talented "Frank Flynn Trio" and the fabulous "Nostalgia" Show Band. Tickets are priced at £10 each and supper is included.  It promises to be a fantastic evening and this is a cause well worth supporting.

Frank and Janice hosted a visit from 8 children from the Ukraine at their home in Pilling for a treasure hunt and a sing-song. In spite of the rain the children had a lovely time. Chernobyl Children's Lifeline brings children to the UK for one month to breath clean air and eat fresh, unpolluted food and water. These breaks really do make a great difference to the life-expectancy of these children.

For further information, or to reserve tickets, please call the venue or contact Chris on 01772 686339.

All proceeds will go to Chernobyl Chidren's Lifeline, Registered Charity No. 1014274

Theatre Review: The Platters Show at Blackpool North Pier Theatre

Blackpool North Pier Theatre has launched its Summer Season of shows and, with a different show every night of the week, there is something for everybody in this packed programme of family entertainment.

We were lucky enough to be able to see the opening night of this new summer season - The Platters Show which will run every Saturday night until the end of October.

The evening kicked off with Blackpool-based Soul and Motown Singer Cherie Jade in a shimmering gold lammé dress, singing a selection of Diana Ross songs - starting off with punchy early 80s number "I'm Coming Up".  She then glistened her way through all the best-known Supremes classics, such as "Where Did Our Love Go?", "Stop In The Name Of Love" and finished off with a rousing rendition of "You Can't Hurry Love".

Next on the bill was Andy Eastwood - who many people may have seen on the "We'll Meet Again" Nostalgia Tour.  Andy is a really talented musician and entertainer.  His very varied set list included some George Formby favourites, Elvis on a banjelele (yes... really!), a bit of Buddy Holly on guitar, an unusual version of the William Tell overture and he finished off with some wonderful violin playing with some country and western thrown in as well.

The second half of the show featured the Platters who sang all the hits such as "Great Pretender", "Only You", "Twilight Time", "My Prayer" and "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes".  They also performed a variety of hits made famous by other artists such as The Inkspots, Sam Cooke, New York City as well as a couple of rousing Tina Turner numbers sung by vocalist Jaquie Ross.  This was a show with something for everybody and definitely worth a look.

The Platters Show is on at the North Pier Theatre every Saturday evening until 29th October 2011.

To find out about this and the other Summer Season shows or to book tickets, visit the website at http://www.northpierblackpool.co.uk/

Hot Ice Show Ticket Offer Extended For FY & PR Postcodes

The world’s most spectacular ice show is now open at The Arena, Pleasure Beach Blackpool for the 2011 season and is offering an equally spectacular offer for local residents!

The skating show has so far gone down a storm with visitors and residents alike, so much so that Pleasure Beach are extending the successful Buy One Get One Free offer for FY and PR residents for July throughout August too.

Hot Ice Show Producer and Director Amanda Thompson said “I’m so pleased that so many locals have been coming to see the Hot Ice Show, with many returning each week! I’m delighted to extend our popular Buy One Get One Free offer throughout August as well as July so that more FY and PR postcode residents can enjoy this amazing show which is taking place right here in Blackpool”.

The skating show features everything that is hot in ice skating with the very best performers from around the world taking to the ice in over 800 stunning costumes to a whole collection of mesmerising music, state of the art lighting and explosive pyrotechnic fire effects.

The latest Hot Ice production is at the Arena, Pleasure Beach, Blackpool up until the 4th September 2011. The show is suitable for all members of the family, with elements that appeal to everyone. To book the special Buy One Get One Free tickets, visit http://www.pleasurebeachresort.com/  and enter code 11207 or visit the Arena with proof of address. Offer available on 7.30pm performances every Friday in July and August.

PRICES
Friday evening performances are discounted to just £18 per ticket. The Buy One Get One Free offer will be applied to this already discounted price

Miss Blackpool 2011 - Heat 4 : Result & Interviews

Miss Blackpool 2011 Heat 4 Result

1st Hollie Robinson (left of photo)
2nd Naomi Rae (right of photo)

To hear interview clips, click below (this takes longer to load if you are using a Mac...):

Choking Susan UK Tour Dates & Radio Interview

American punk band Choking Susan are playing dates across the UK leading up to their appearnce at the Rebellion Punk Festival. Date are as follows:

23rd Jul: The Green Star, Stoke on Trent
26th Jul: the 13th Note, Glasgow
27th Jul: The Three Tuns,Gateshead
28th Jul: The Bitter End, Romford
29th Jul: Royal Oak, Ipswich
30th Jul: The Bridgehouse 2, London
31st Jul: The Witchwood,Manchester
2nd Aug: The Old Wharf,Birmingham
4th Aug: REBELLION FESTIVAL,BLACKPOOL
7th Aug: West Coast Cafe, Blackpool

We will be featuring our interview with Colleen Caffeine in our Rebellion Festival preview special on Weds 27th July at 4pm on Preston FM.

Choking Susan have a new CD out soon!!  For more info, check out the website at http://www.chokingsusan.com/

The Comedians 40th Anniversary Show At Blackpool Grand Theatre - During August

On Friday evenings during August, the Comedians Frank Carson, Stan Boardman, Jim Bowen, Mick Miller and Duggie Brown will be taking to the stage at The Grand Theatre for a unique show that coincides with the 40th anniversary of the legendary TV show The Comedians.

The show is hosted by Johnnie Hamp, producer of the original and iconic Granada TV show.

In addition, there will be a segment of the show that will include clips and archive footage of Bernard Manning, Charlie Williams, George Roper and many more on the big screen. It will truly be a merging of the past and present, a celebration and a tribute. There will be a non-stop barrage of laughter as the comedians take to the stage and will be a memorable and an historic evening.

The Comedians will be performing at the Grand Theatre on Fridays 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th August.

To book tickets, call the box office on 01253 290190 or visit the website at:  http://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/

To hear some short interview clips with Stan Boardman and Mick Miller, click on the relevant sound icon below:

Pauline Black / The Selecter - New Book, CD & Tour

Pauline Black - lead singer with Ska legends The Selecter - has her fascinating autobiography "Black By Design" published by Serpents Tail on 14th July.

Oli Munson of the Blake Friedmann Literary Agency sold world English language rights to Black by Design to Pete Ayrton, publisher, and John Williams, editor at Serpent’s Tail. It will be published in late summer 2011.

After the group split in 1982, Black developed an acting career in television and theatre, appearing in dramas such as The Vice, The Bill, Hearts and Minds and 2000 Acres of Sky.

Ayrton said Black's book would be a "wonderful addition" to the list. Among other recent music titles Serpent's Tail has publshed Jah Wobble's autobiography Memoirs of a Geezer.

Ayrton added: "A 2-tone memoir, a women's insider account of the music business and a story of growing up as a black child in a white family, Black by Design is brilliant in many varied ways."

Black said: "I believe that Black by Design has found the perfect home at Serpent's Tail. I have long admired their maverick commitment to new voices and in particular the diversity and breadth of their catalogue... It is an enormous thrill to be on such a list."

The band reformed in 2010 and have a new CD entitled "Made In Britain"coming out on 1st September. Prior to that a new single entiled "Back To Black" will be released on 30th July.

For more information and tour dates, visit the offical website at: http://www.theselecter.net/concerts.htm

We had a chat with Pauline about her book and the forthcoming CD and tour and you'll be able to hear that interview in our "Best Kept Secrets... In Conversation" show on Preston FMon Friday 29th July at 7pm. 

However, just to give you a bit of a taster, you can hear s ahort clip of Pauline Black talking about the book NOW by clicking on the sound icon below:
(please note: if you are using a Mac, this will take a little while to load...)







A review of Black By Design by Pauline Black will be posted here shortly.

Miss Blackpool Confidential, Part Two on Preston FM - 11th July

Join us for the second part of our behind the scenes documentary at one of the oldest and most prestigious beauty competitions in the country as we relive the glamour and excitement of the 2010 competition.

This show airs on 103.2 Preston FM from 4 to 5 pm on Monday 11th July.

Features interviews with:
Karen Cookson / Jessica Berry / Peter Baldwin / Howard Barton
Mirror Talk / Bev Willets / Sue Knight / Tim Walford
Glenn Priestley / Roy Hardacre / Mark Courtney Massey / Ella Green
and music from Jessica Berry and Emma Holbrook.

Not to be missed!

You can tune in to Preston FM on 103.2FM in the Preston area or listen live online at http://www.preston.fm/

Eastham Rocks and Respects

We've just had news in of a really great event that needs support. A concert in tribute to local heroes, past, future and present is to be held in Eastham on 17th July.

Organised to honour and in loving memory of:

Douglas Halliday age 20 from Rock Ferry
Alex Isaac age 20 from Eastham
Martyn (Bobby) Horton from Runcorn
Dave Ramsden from Leeds 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment
Steven Boote Royal Military Police from Prenton whose life was taken on 3rd Nov 2009.  

All proceeds from this event will go directly to the following Armed Forces charities:

The Mercian Regiment Benevolent Fund – Registered charity number: 270702
Royal British Legion Bikers – Registered charity number: 219279
The Army Benevolent Fund – Registered charity number: 211645
Help for Heroes – Registered charity number: 1120920

On Sunday, 17th July 2011 a LIVE MUSIC FESTIVAL will rock Eastham from 12:00 – 20:00 at:

Old Anselmians Rugby Club
Malone Field,
Eastham Village Road
Eastham, Wirral, Merseyside CH62 0BL

Entry is £2.00 each for adults children under 14 are free

The event will feature a 45ft outdoor stage that will showcase some of Merseyside’s top bands and performers playing live, a  BBQ and bar open all day.

Please feel free to bring you own picnic - no glass bottles or alcohol please.

Featured will be displays from Royal British Legion Bikers and The Mercian Regiment.

There will also be bouncy castles, face painting, donkeys rides, charity stalls and much much more! The organisers really want this day to raise money, support and awareness for what our Armed Forces do for us and to unite the local community. So please go along and support this event.

Enter Miss Radio Wave 2011 Photographic Competition - Interview with Lauren Carr, Miss Radio Wave 2010

The 2011 Miss Radio Wave Photographic Competition is now under way and local beauties are encouraged to submit their applications.

The winner and runner-up in this competition, both qualify for direct entry to the Final of the prestigious Miss Blackpool Competition.

To find out more, visit the Radio Wave Website www.wave965.com.

We had a chat with reigning Miss Radio Wave, Lauren Carr.

You can hear what she had to say by clicking on the sound icon below.

"Au Revoir Review 3" at Blackpool Grand Theatre, 11th - 13th July 2011

Every evening from Monday 11th July to Wednesday 13th July, from 7.00 pm the main stage at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre will be filled with music, song, dance and comedy from budding primary school performers in the exciting Au Revoir Review 3.

Please book early as this show may sell out!

The Au Revoir Review 3 is at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre from Monday 11th July to Wednesday 13th July at 7.00 pm. Adult tickets £5, child and senior £3.50 Book your seats now by calling the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190, online at www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk or at the Grand Theatre information sales point in the Houndshill Shopping Centre.

The 22nd Great British RnB Festival In Colne - August Bank Holiday Weekend

The Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival is now only weeks away - and again, what a line-up we’ve got for you! This year Pendle Leisure Trust is celebrating 22 years of bringing the Blues to Colne.

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the crème-de-la-crème of the Blues world will be gracing the Muni stage, playing to thousands of fans who travel from throughout the UK and Europe to listen to some first-class music. More than 600 musicians will perform at eight venues over the four days. With authentic electric blues, rock, jazz and acoustic sets, there really is something for everyone. Kicking off the festival on the main stage will be Jack Bruce with the Norman Beaker Band and the Wilko Johnson Band. Radio Lancashire will once again be taking over and broadcasting live from the British Stage on the opening night - Friday, 26 August.

The Animals and Friends, featuring Steve Cropper, will start proceedings on the International Stage on the Saturday. Highlights later on in the day will include Grammy Award Winner Mavis Staples and Sherman Robertson. The Joni Fuller Band, the Dale Storr Band and Cherry Lee Mewis will be keeping the crowds entertained on the British Stage. On Sunday, The Steve Gibbons Band, Giles Robson and The Dirty Aces, Lisa Mills and Muddy Waters’ eldest son Mud Morganfield take to the International Stage. The Bare Bones Boogie Band will have the crowds dancing as they open the British Stage and The Cats - who took the Acoustic Stage by storm last year - are definitely one to watch later that evening.

The Alex McKown Band, the Trevor Burton Blues Band and the Tommy Allen Band, featuring John Hewitt, will be the highlights of the Jessica Foxley Stage at Pendle Leisure Centre on the Monday. And popular, young musician Oli Brown - who wowed the crowds on the International Stage last year - returns to kick off the music on Monday. He will be joined by Gospel singer Sharrie Williams, the Robin Trower Band and the Buddy Whittington Band will bring the festival to a rousing close.

We will be welcoming to the Acoustic Stage, among others, The Ginjammers, Tom Attah - who thoroughly entertained passengers on The Music Train last year, Tom Doughty and old favourites Lucy Zirins, Graham Robinson and compere and musician Mal Gibson - aka Charlie White. Barnfield Construction sponsors the roadhouses for another year. Colne and Nelson Rugby Club, The Admiral Lord Rodney, The Crown Hotel, The Dressers and The Royal British Legion will all play host to some chilled-out Blues tunes.

Tim Webber, Managing Director of Barnfield Construction, the festival’s main sponsor, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this fantastic event again this year.   “It does a terrific job of bringing friends of the festival from all over the world and the local community together over the Bank Holiday weekend, which in turn is excellent for the local economy.” Festival organiser, Alison Goode, added: “Again we have some fantastic acts lined-up - some old, some new and some back by popular demand! “Year on year we aim to get bigger and better and this year - our 22nd - I don’t think we will disappoint.”

Miss Blackpool 2011 Heat 3 Result & Interviews

Miss Blackpool 2011 Heat 3 Result:
1st Kayleigh Cooper (pictured)
2nd Ashley McKeever

You can hear a short interview clip with Kayleigh by clicking below now:
(Please note this takes longer to load if you are using a Mac...)

Fylde Star Jason Robinson Calls It A Day

A statement issued by Fylde RFC (7th July 2011, 15.30) explains that Jason Robinson has announced that he's decided to end his playing career.

Jason made a massive contribution to Fylde Rugby Club last season and for that we'll be eternally grateful. Our successful promotion campaign was assisted in no small measure by Jason's brilliance, on and off the field.  He showed himself to be the consummate professional, with high standards in everything he did for the Club. It was a tremendous thrill for everyone associated with Fylde, and for opposing players and spectators, to see him in the claret and gold. He'll always get an affectionate and very warm welcome back at the Woodlands. We wish him every success in his various future initiatives.

Michael Morpurgo's Friend Or Foe Coming To Blackpool Grand Theatre - 11th Nov

Blackpool’s Grand Theatre announces another Michael Morpurgo warfare masterpiece "Friend or Foe" to be brought beautifully to life on stage on Friday 11th November 2011, just as the renowned author picks up his third Red House Children’s Book Award.

For more information and bookings visit the Grand Theatre's website at www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Raghu Dixit UK Tour Dates

Recent star of the Glastonbury Festival, giant of World Music Raghu Dixit, embarks on a UK tour this weekend.

Dates are as follows:

Friday 8th July - South Asian Festival, Kendal;
Saturday 9th July - Rhythms of the World Hitchin, Hertfordshire;
Sunday 10th July - The Big Weekend, Cambridge;
Tuesday 12th July - London Indian Film Festival, London;
Thursday 14th July - Hoxton Hall and Theatre, London;
Saturday 16th July - Latitude, Suffolk;
Sunday 17th July - National Centre For Early Music, York;
Wednesday 3rd August - HMV Institute, Birmingham;
Thursday 4th August- Oran More, Glasgow;
Saturday 6th August - Belladrum Festival, Invernessshire;
Sunday 7th August - Edge festival, Edinburgh;
Tuesday 9th August - Band on the Wall, Manchester;
Wednesday 10th August - Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich;
Friday 12th August - Summer Sundae, Leicestershire;
Sunday 14th August - Standon Calling, Standon, Hertfordshire.

For more information, visit Raghu's official website at http://www.raghudixit.com/

To hear our interview with Raghu, click on the sound icon below:
please note - if you are using a Mac, this will take longer to load - not sure why...)

Piccadilly Dance Orchestra at the Sands Venue in Blackpool, 30th July 2011

From their residency at the Savoy Hotel in London, the Sands Venue in Blackpool is proud to present the Piccadilly Dance Orchestra who will be appearing on Saturday, 30th July 2011.

Michael Law's Piccadilly Dance Orchestra, accompanied by the Cafe de Paris girls, will be singing and dancing songs from the elegant era of the 1920s and 30s.

For tickets and information, please call 01253 625262 or visit www.the-sands.co.uk

Garden Open Day for Macmillan Cancer Care raised over £4,000

As you know, Janice and Frank Flynn open their beautiful garden each year in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care.  This year - 26th June - marked the tenth anniversary of this event.  Janice has asked us to thank everyone and how better than in her own words:

"Dear Friends

Our 10th Garden Open day on 26th June was a resounding success. The weather was great and nearly 500 people came to see the garden which looked fabulous.  We made nearly £4,200.00 for the Over Wyre Macmillan Cancer Support - an incredible sum which takes our total for the 10 years to roughly £26.200.00.

Frank and I were delighted and humbled by the huge turn out and the wonderful things everyone said about our garden.  Once again, it was only possible with the help of our family and friends who, so willingly, give their time and support before and on the day. The peerless Macmillan ladies - and husbands - who work so hard to make it such a success and the countless home bakers who again brought their wonderful creations to the cake stall.

I don't know about next year - I never think about it until after Christmas. But I never say never so watch this space!

There was a video made for television on the day which will be shown on Sky Showcase Channel 201 - Backstage Blackpool - sometime in August. I'll let you know when I know the date.

Finally, I entered the Daily Mail National Garden Competition again this year - to please my friend Pat from Yorkshire - she with the pink hair!!. I last entered in 2006 and came 7th and received a highly commended plaque. I have been short listed to the final eleven this time and Hamish Webb from the Daily Mail and Tim Sharples, a garden designer, have been to see my garden this morning. They were very complimentary. If I reach the final four my garden will be featured in the Daily Mail Weekend magazine in late July and the winner will be announced in August. So that's another space to watch.

I would be gratefulI if you could forward or show this to anyone who was involved or came to the garden and whose email I may not have.

I'm having a day off from gardening today - the first for about a month, but somehow I know that grass will keep growing!

With gratitude and thanks and love to each every one who did anything to help, however big or small.

Janice"

Anne Nolan at the Sands Venue, Blackpool on 16th July 2011

Anne Nolan of the famous Nolan Sisters, is appearing at the Sands Venue in Blackpool on Saturday, 16th July.

The Nolans are best known for their song "I'm In the Mood for Dancing" which gained prominence on numerous television shows and is still a popular dance floor filler to this day! They sold more than 12 Million records in Japan alone and at the time “Dancing” had sold more records there than the Beatles!

In addition to recording, the Sisters toured the world with established artistes such as Engelbert Humperdinck and their own personal career highlight was supporting the European Tour of their idol – Frank Sinatra.

Anne has starred in numerous pantomime productions and has enjoyed performing as a solo act both in the UK and in Spain. She also headlined recently with Peter Andre at the Manchester Gay Pride in front of 10,000 people at the outdoor extravaganza.

The gig at The Sands will see her performing a selection of songs from the American Songbook, as these are the kind of songs she loves to sing and to listen to. Anne said: “I love to work with a live band. I am absolutely thrilled to be entertaining at The Sands Venue with their Swing Spectacular Band.”

 To book, call 01253 62 52 62 or go on line at www.the-sands.co.uk

FutureProof - Exclusive Interview With Kiran

All aged 21 or below, FutureProof - aka Jonni Wedge (Vocals), Kiran Marshall (Guitars/Production) and Charlie Leftwich (Keys/Production) are a London-based artist/DJ/producer collective with an innate ability to write infectious electro-pop music. They mix contemporary lyrical content with a polished, mainstream-ready sound that is entirely organic: but you'll think they were put together with the sole intention of pleasing the YouTube generation.

In Summer 2010, a matter of months after their formation, the trio caught the eye of B-Unique Management and locked themselves away in a studio in Malmo, Sweden with European super-producer Anderz Wrethov, whose previous work has seen him sell more than 8 million records all over the world. The collaboration produced immediate, stunning results and after catching the eye of Scott Brothman, director of fast-growing UK indie LAB Records, the trio co-signed to LAB (Hellogoodbye, The Summer Set & Pegasus Bridge) and investment label Bassjar Productions at the start of 2011.

Wrethov, a top ten artist in Sweden, also lends a guest vocal to Party Hard, the band's debut European single, released via Roasting House/LAB/Sony BMG later this year.

All tracks are mastered by Nigel Heath (previous work includes Take That & The Backstreet Boys) & Alexander Fielding at Hackenbacker Studios, London UK.

To hear an exclusive interview with Kiran , click on the sound icon below:


FutureProof released their debut single One More Chance on July 3

See JUiCE in Concert At Blackpool North Pier Theatre - 9th July

Move over McFly and Busted, it’s time for the public to be intro-juiced to Jamie, Chris and Ryan – aka JUiCE – the hottest new UK boy band who will make their Blackpool debut at the North Pier Theatre on Saturday 9th July at 7.30pm.

The boys of JUiCE have been bubbling in a cauldron of lifetime talent on a quiet simmer… until now that is. They have built up a mass of adoring admirers who are in their intoxicating custody for good.

The Preston-based JUiCE boys are no strangers to a music industry that’s been watching them ripen to perfection. The boys combined experiences have helped them develop into a truly fresh and unique sound that’s simply mind blowing.

They’ve got the looks, they’ve got the voices, they’ve got the stage show; and coupled with the fact that they can play (Jamie and Chris on guitar and Ryan on bass) and write their own compositions, JUiCE are destined to take the music industry by storm.

Based at the same production house as Mcfly, Busted and Wham to name but a few and bursting with uber-cool energy and vibrance, JUiCE will leave you punching the air with excitement.

See JUiCE perform live at Blackpool’s North Pier Theatre on Saturday 9th July. The concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets are priced at just £10 for adults, £5 for children. Call the North Pier Box Office on 01253 623304 or book online via http://www.northpierblackpool.co.uk/. You can also book via http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/   or by calling 0844 847 2452.

You can listen to our exclusive interview with the boys right now by clicking on the sound icon below:

St Annes Music Festival - 21st to 24th July

There's a great FREE local music festival coming to St Annes later this month.

Check out the latest news on Facebook

You can hear our interview with organiser Phil Green by clicking on the sound icon below:

Hollie Robinson In Miss England Final - Exclusive Interview

North West beauty Hollie Robinson - Miss West Lancashire -  is one of 61 girls taking part in the finals of Miss England on 18th and 19th July, hoping to win a place in the final of Miss World. 

You can find out more about the Miss England competition and see all the finalists on the official website at: http://www.missengland.info/

We caught up with Hollie and aksed how it was all going. To listen, click on the sound icon below:

 

Fylde Community Arts Projects

Did you know there was a Fylde Community Arts Project supporting creativity in the Fylde area?   Well, neither did we - and that is exactly why we came up with the idea of Best Kept Secrets.

Fylde Community Arts Project organise events at Marsh Mill in Thornton Cleveleys on certain Sundays.

For instance, on 17th July there is to be a big music fest with Glyn Bailey and the Many Splendid Things, Los Latinos, Angela Potter a Jazz Vocalist, Community Choir, Max Flamenco Guitarist and guess who? - Sahara's Harem Belly Dancers (Sahara - why didn't you tell us!).

This event sounds amazing - please - why is it a secret?

For further information please contact mnye@hotmail.co.uk or call Barrie Parker on 01253 395251

Hope to see you at Marsh Mill one Sunday.

Ballroom and Latin American Dancing Classes on the Fylde Coast

If you’ve always wanted to learn to dance but never had the time, now is your chance.   Accomplished Latin American and Ballroom competition dancers Paul and Jean Durham are now based on the Fylde Coast.   Having run a dance school for eight and a half years, they went on to teach dance on cruise liners, in the Canary Islands and in Malta.

They will have you up, dancing and looking good in a relatively short space of time with easy-to-learn routines specially choreographed by Paul, while Jean’s individual technique ensures excellent footwork.  And with Jean and Paul, learning to dance is FUN.

With much experience of teaching, Paul and Jean now offer a variety of Ballroom and Latin American classes, plus Argentine Tango in Lytham St. Annes.

Recent research demonstrates that dancing  - especially ballroom – is a very good way of keeping fit and enhancing your social life.  Why not give it a whirl. 


For details of dance classes, please see poster or e-mail paulandjean@danceeasy.co.uk 

CD Release: Defiant 2011 with bonus tracks - Vice Squad

TRACK LIST :
1 Defiant
2 Ordinary, Decent
3 Britain Is Still Burning
4 Voice Of The People
5 You Can't Can't Do That !!
6 Story Of My Life
7 Don't Let The Bastards Grind You Down
8 Fast Forward
9 Vermin
10 You Can't Buy Back The Dead
11 The Great Fire Of London
12 Antisocial Insecurity
13 War Of Attrition
BONUS TRACKS
14 I Am Not The Reason   *** Our Top Track Tip
15 Missing Girl
16 Drug Bore
17 Get A Mind Of Your Own
18 Are You Happy Now ?
19 Spitfire

DEFIANT 2011 CD version BY VICE SQUAD is ENTIRELY REMASTERED with new artwork.

This album IS THE 'PRODUCERS CUT' EDITION featuring edited versions of the original album AND 5 bonus previously UNRELEASED tracks taken from the DEFIANT sessions of 2006.

Following on from their popular download version of this re-released album, the band have decided to make available a limted number of CD copies of Defiant 2011 available. This is a STRICTLY LIMITED RUN 250 only - Comes in CD single jewel case with 2 fold sleeve & onbody print - featuring hand numbered and dated certificate printed on cotton parchment paper. EACH CD IS INDIVIDUALLY NUMBERED and will not be produced after these have sold out. These albums are truly collectable

To buy your copy of the limited edition Defiant CD, go to the official merchandise site here: http://www.vicesquad.co.uk/vicesquadshop/defiant2011.html

You can hear our exclusive interview with Beki talking about the Defiant re-release by clicking on the sound icon below:

Tuesday Afternoon Tea Dances at The Sands Venue, Blackpool

Back by popular demand until the end of August, Tuesday afternoon Tea Dances at the Sands Venue on Blackpool Promenade are very special.  With a live band - Frontline who are experienced cruise line entertainers - world-class venue with plenty of space to dance and a truly scrumptious afternoon tea served to your table, this is a real treat and all for £9.99 per person.

Even if you don't dance, why not go along, listen to the band, make new friends and enjoy the afternoon tea experience.

Dancing starts at 2 p.m. and ends at 4 p.m.

For further information, please call 01253 635262 or just pop in.

To hear an interview with Frontline Jazz Quartet Band Leader John Moakes, click on the sound icon below

DCWC Charity Ball featuring Joe Longthorne - 23rd July 2011

St. Annes-based charity DCWC handles lots of charitable projects in Nepal. There is an opportunity to support this North-West based Charity and to have a great evening out at the same time as they are holding a Charity Summer Ball at the Imperial Hotel in Blackpool on Saturday, 23rd July 2011.

Highly respected singer Joe Longthorne will be performing at the event.

To hear a short interview clip about DCWC and the Charity Ball, click on the sound icon below.

Trinity Hospice Charity Event, Saturday, 16th July 2011

There's a great opportunity to support Trinity Hospice and have an enjoyable meal at the same time.

On Saturday, 16th July 2011 the Lytham St. Annes Friends of Trinity Hospice Group are holding a special lunch at St. Paul's Church in Fairhaven in aid of the Blackpool-based Hospice.

Tickets are £10 and lunch is 12 noon for 12.30. For Booking details and more information please see the flyer (left).

Carnival Of Dreams Charity Evening - Blackpool Grand Theatre, 7th August

Carnival of Dreams is a star-studded Charity Gala in support of Donna's Dream House. A Song and Dance Extravaganza.

Carnival of Dreams will feature Gareth Gates, comedy legend Jimmy Cricket, Denise Nolan, Irish international singing star Rose-Marie, JK as Robbie Williams, International comedy entertainer Kenny Cantor, Aimi MacDonald, Sue Devaney (BBC's Dinnerladies), International female impersonator Ceri Dupree, Scott Wright (Coronation Street) and the cast of Blackpool's rock and roller coaster musical Booze Birds & Blackpool Rock, Top UK & World Elvis impersonator Martin Fox, Jamie Pugh from Britain's Got Talent, Comical singing ventriloquist Kieran Powell, Shani Cantor, Leo Jones Star of Tv's Airline, S1cottish Champions Craig Paton on the accordion and Andy Kain on the fiddle, Fylde Scottish Country Dancers, Barry Haywood, Iain Matley, and Blackpool's very own Funny Girls, Langley Dance Centre, Mary Whelan School of Irish Dancing, Blackpool Circus School, Greater Manchester Pipe Band.

More star names for this song and dance extravaganza are being added all the time.

Info and booking: http://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/

Magic Trees - "Canada Day" Gigs This Weekend

Why not celebrate Canada Day on July 1st with everybody's  favourite Canadians at the Cube in Poulton! (FY6 7AA), Saturday night, July 2nd it's the Burn Naze in Cleveleys (FY5 4JF) and Sunday, July 3rd, they will be closing out the weekend at the Edge in Poulton with the Keytars and Callighan N Wolski (FY6 7SR)

 More info: http://www.magictreesband.com/

You can hear a brand new interview with Jason Moon by clicking on the sound icon below: