This Post Is Dedicated To 'Thin Lizzy'

For our 'Out of Town' readers, particularly those 'overseas' this was Weymouth beach and the Purbeck Peninsula bathed in autumn sunshine yesterday afternoon.

So, invitation received, the scene was set and the venue

The Three Compasses Inn at Charminster, Dorset raring to go ,Jon Storey's 50th birthday party got underway. I can show you, I can show you some of the people in my life - Turn It On Again, Genesis.

The outside welcoming committee comprising Alan & Sheldon House with guitarist Fraser Clubb,

while within the Birthday Boy himself.

Kate with Jon's partner Sally.

Kate again, this time with husband Brian who after an exhausting session with the 'axe' returns to Afghanistan today. Bon Voyage matey and a safe return!

As parties go, this one couldn't have started in any better way. Few, if any, would have believed that we would ever see this image again,

Jon Storey playing his beloved Fender Stratocaster. Some years ago and without much warning Jon confined his axe to the case and vowed never to play again. His reasons are his own business, but at the time I suggested there would come a time? With years having passed by I had resigned myself to being wrong, but what a loss to the world of rock music. To see him there yesterday brought a tear to more than one eye, and as someone once said maybe you'll get a little blister on your finger, maybe you'll get a little blister on your thumb (Mark Knopfler), but don't be tempted to put it down again my mate!

'Blue Job' one of Jon's many musical formations, with front-man Chris Whiteside.

'Blue Job' bass & drums Andy Sykes with Jake.

Jon doing the twiddly bit in Rory Gallagher number Messin' With The Kid.

TV actor and stuntman Dean Martin with partner Tina. Look out for Dean in the new series of Sherlock Holmes and Wormwood Scrubs.

Anything Rock 'n' Roll would be incomplete without Mr Impresario and multi-instrumentalist (including bugle) Dan (The Immigrant) Adams.

Gordon, Jon and Brian opening his only birthday card.

and while on the subject of 'multi-talented, these are the Sundt brothers. Having performed under many headings there was some confusion as to what the band would be called this evening. The most recent having been Beaver (who played my 60th birthday bash) and Freezer, so it was agreed to play under the title of Breezer.

Breezer, with lead guitar Paul, recently graduated from the London Guitar Academy, vocalist Andrew, Adrian on bass and yes, spoiling the show that's Whiteside on drums - well hit the bloody things Bonzo!

Time to take a short diversion with a spin to Dorchester and back in the sexiest TVR. I really should have had another half dozen pints of rough cider to have realised the full potential.

Back in the safe hand of owner Kate, unfortunately the number plate is obscured but what a plate considering husband Brian, among other things, is a guitarist - R4OCK.

The reformation of rock giants Bad Reputation was a real highlight as they punched their way though an enormous number of Thin Lizzy tracks. Jon, making an excellent job of being Brian Robertson, ably assisted by Mark Davis as the latter day Scott Gorham, but I think Chris will have to spend a bit more time on the sunbed before he can emulate Phil Lynott?

The only original band member to be absent was their drummer, but what better way to fill the vacant seat than with his son Nick Diablo nee Brian Downey. Finally, but by no means least another pale looking Phil Lynott alter ego bass player Dave Degamo.

There was a short pause while the BR's asked for requests, but despite my raucous chant of 'Emerald, Emerald' they chose to play Barry Manilow's 'Mandy' he he! So b*ll*cks to you lots here we go - 2, 3 de de de

Down from the glen came the marching men
With their shields and their swords
To fight the fight they believed to be right
Overthrow the overlords

To the town where there was plenty
They brought plunder, swords and flame
When they left the town was empty
Children would never play again

From their graves I heard the fallen
Above the battle cry
By that bridge near the border
There were many more to die

Then onward over the mountain
And outward towards the sea
They had come to claim the Emerald
Without it they could not leave

After the ordeal time for a little relaxation with Jade (daughter of) Sally, Jon and the Bros Sundt.

Next up a most polished acoustic set from Dan Adams & Fraser Clubb.

None of this would have been possible without the staunch efforts of mine host Rob Dixon (and the behind scenes crew) who I met for the first time yesterday. A most convivial man, perfectly suited to his profession. Best Wishes Rob and thanks for a great gig.

Thin Lizzy

Bless 'Em!