REGARDING the current interest in the Hippodrome, particularly during the War, I am sure many March residents will recall the many excellent Concerts held there for various Charities during this time.

REGARDING the current interest in the Hippodrome, particularly during the War,

I am sure many March residents will recall the many excellent Concerts held there for various Charities during this time. They were mainly organised by a well-known March man – Hughie Foster, aided by other members of March Local War Charities Entertainment Committee, chaired by T W Shepperson. Many famous radio stars appeared on the concerts. I should have several of the programmes stowed away some where, however one has come to hand for a concert held on Sunday June 13, 1943 in aid of the Local Red Cross Fund. I was involved, still a school boy, backstage at these productions. In those days, the sound production was provided by Mr Roland Adams who had a radio shop in Station Road. He was another well known figure in March, as he was confined to a wheel-chair. I assisted him by carrying out the wiring between stage microphones, amplifiers and various loud-speakers.

The programme I found clearly illustrates the high standard of entertainment that was provided by the Committee, particularly Hughie Foster, himself. It shows artists appearing who were nationally known radio stars of the day. This concerted presented Issy Bonn, Nat Jackley, Albert Atkins and others. Locals were also on stage, Mrs Hazel accompanist on the piano and the inimitable Bert Bradshaw, who was appearing on a Radio Wartime Show – Workers Playtime.

I hope this may bring back memories to many of March Senior Citizens, who attended, enjoyed and filled the coffers of the charities.

ROY GIDDENS

March