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“Paul Mc Cartney” joins Garstang Cycling Club
Whilst taking an evening bike ride, Garstang Cycling Club member, John Spencer was riding between Chipping and Garstang when he was flagged down by another cyclist. Thinking that there was perhaps a puncture or other mechanical problem, John stopped to see if he could assist. Although on a borrowed bike which appeared to have seen better days, the other rider merely wanted some directional assistance and asked John if he could tell him whether or not there were any RC churches in the vicinity and what time the services were held. By way of personal knowledge and a telephone call to his wife, John was able to provide all the details which were then sent by email to the other rider. Both riders were totally amazed at the chances of stopping a complete stranger in such a locality who could provide all the required information, and the following conversation revealed an even more amazing situation. The stranger was a Mexican American called Armando Regalato, who was staying for a month in a cottage in Bleasdale together with other Americans and their manager, who together formed a Beatles tribute band by the name of The Cavern Beat and were undertaking a UK tour which included Liverpool’s famous Cavern. Armando, who plays the part of Sir Paul McCartney, also explained that back home in Chicago, he is a keen road cyclist and said that he would have loved to ride with Garstang Cycling Club, although pressure of performances made it impossible. The final gig in the UK tour was held on Tuesday 26th August at the Bootleggers Bar in Kendal, which is a well known venue for live music and provided an opportunity for John and Margaret to see the group in action and to present Armando (Paul McCartney) with honorary membership of Garstang Cycling Club, as can be seen in the attached photograph.
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