Bill Phelan (1926-2014)
We are saddened to hear the news of the passing over the Christmas period of Bill Phelan who was one of the band’s early allies. Bill (shown right) was the landlord of the Duke Of Lancaster pub in North London which played host to the band on many occasions in the early days. As a sign of their appreciation, Bill was named checked as the ‘Phelan man’ in Bitching. JJ sent us the following message about him:
Very sorry to hear that Bill Phelan has passed away. He was one of the few in the days before we had a record deal who not only treated us with respect but showed faith in us. As a result we wrote him into one of our early songs as a thank you. We also played back at the Duke of Lancaster when we had sold out a record five nights at the Roundhouse as a mark of respect to one of the few people who had treated us with courtesy. A fine gentleman who made a lasting impression.
RIP Bill