Then & Now

A Memory of Kidderminster.

I remember during my teens to early twenties there always seemed to be gigs on. From The Green Man (where it must be said, I really shouldn't have been, not then being 18), where it was very bluesy music, plus of course the mighty Monty Woodpigs disco. With Joe boogying away behind the bar whilst serving. Obviously the Black Horse was another favourite along with Frank's just up the road, ah heady memories. I cannot leave out the Farmer's Boy, (now a vets; - duh WTF?), where bands were a regular event. Ok most of them were the same guys playing under different hats, Streets Ahead, Liquid Lil & The Lillettes, among others. I think it was probably there that I first met John Combe, a great man who almost single handidly helped make Kidder a great place to be, (and whom I helped out with at the Irish Club along with Mick Vaux (hope I spelled that right man).) I recently returned to Kidder after a long spell away. I was shocked at what had happened to my home town. Where was the busy town centre? What happened to the pubs? Ok that was the initial reaction. After spending time walking round and talking to people I got used to the 'new' town centre, however the old town centre is in a sorry state, unless you're a fan of charity shop, and 'bargain basement' stores. I have reacquainted myself with The Boars' Head (sorry Tap House doesn't do justice), and with luck the music license won't be too far away, good luck with that Sid & Sandra. Lastly but by no means least great to meet Mel at the Swan, who has done wonders with the place, keep up the good work peeps. I'm well looking forward to the music fest later this year.