A return to The Washington, Blackpool which is dubbed our ‘Home from Home’ was on the gig list for 9th November and what a return it was.

Never let it be said that we don’t entertain far and wide. We had a couple that had seen JBB previously and had travelled back from Coventry solely to come and see the band (congratulations on the engagement), a young lady had travelled from Essex, originally from Ireland, and had her Mum and Dad in tow who had flown from Cork City, Ireland (we would like to claim they were there for us however it was just a happy coincidence), members of Hampton Road Social Club were also in attendance due to being unavailable at the end of the month when the band make their debut appearance, followers of JBB from Masters Rugby were also in attendance alongside representatives from Belles and last but by no means least staff from Chris’s day job were also in attendance for a works night out.

Of course there were the regular band followers as well but with one vital ingredient missing ‘The Big Man’ was unfortunately unable to attend. He was sorely missed.

JBB was joined by Phil Dodgson on drums for this gig and with this being the third gig for Phil he was clearly more relaxed and ready to rock with the lads. Chris and Phil were trying to put each other off at random points throughout the night and it was clear to see that Phil was winning!

Part way through the night a great friend of the band, who had been performing elsewhere himself, came in to The Washington with his guitar. Scott Slattery, for the second spot, was dragged up with JBB to perform a few songs at the beginning and the end of the night. Much thanks to Scott for joining the band on an impromptu performance on guitar and vocals.

Numerous requests were made for different songs and one was shouted out by a great follower of the band, and possibly future Van Sessions interviewee, Terry. The request was for JBBs acoustic version of Livin’ on a Prayer. Now this song has not been performed since Phil Burr had been unwell and subsequent retirement and due to the fact that he took lead on the song. JBB decided tonight would be the night to bring it back out and it brought the house down.

The final surprise of the night was Andy, following JBBs rendition of Livin’ on a Prayer, launching into the opening run of Merry Xmas by Slade. Now knowing Chris’s aversion to Christmas the venue jumped up on their feet when Chris started singing to bring the night to a close. The immortal line of “It’s Christmas” to end the song was amended by Andy to “It’s Not Christmas”

Thanks to Stuart and staff at The Washington for making us welcome. We look forward to returning in March 2025.

A final shout of thanks to all that came to support the band last night. If you have any videos or photos please share them with the band and we will display them proudly..