A music fan has published his seventh book on the tunes from days gone by with a title about the chart topping famous bands that played in March. Around 50 big name artists came to Marcam Hall to play - today’s equivalent of Ed Sheeran, Stormzy and The 1975.

Around 50 big name artists came to Marcam Hall to play - today’s equivalent of Ed Sheeran, Stormzy and The 1975.

Most Saturdays, for four years during the 1960s, the venue played host to a range of up and coming and established artists including The Who, Tom Jones, The Kinks, Gerry and the Pacemakers and The Moody Blues.

Kevin Rodgers said: “Marcam Hall conjures up lots of memories of happy times for many people.

“It reminds of a bygone age, more simple lifestyle, great music, top bands and perhaps a reminder of courting, meeting future partners and growoin up in great times.

“From Opening night in September 1962 to the final dance in November 1966 a little over 200 dances were held.

“Almost all on Saturday nights.

“About 50 of these involved a big name of a pop group at the top of the tree at that time.

“Marcam Hall style of music developed in the Mod or pop culture of the time. The Corn Exchange at Wisbech was a place of rock n roll.”

The story begins with a vision of a great entertainment venue by a man called Ken Wallis, who had been in business for many years in March.

He was a bookmaker but sold the business in 1960 and later owned an egg packing business with his partner Peter Skoulding.

He and transport businessman Fred Manchett bought the old Regent Cinema and ripped out the seats, put in a sprung wooden dance floor a grand opening night took place at the end of September 1962 with a charity dance raising money for the British Empire Cancer Campaign.

Kevin’s book is being officially launched on Saturday April 22 when he gives a talk and slide show called A Wop Bop A Loo Bop at Our lady of Good Counsel and St Peter catholic church hall in St John’s road, March at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £5 and include a glass of wine. Available from Janet 01354-653486.