Bert Weedon RIP

Bert Weedon, who died last week,  was an inspiration to so many budding guitarists in the 1950's and 60's. His book "Play in a Day", first published in 1957,  was the manual for the electric guitar that was instrumental in  producing so many great bands and musicians. Paul McCartney said "George and I went through the Bert Weedon books and learnt D and A together".

Bert was possibly the first person to play the electric guitar in this country, having first been tought classical. This was the only tuition he could find, but always wanted to play the new American music. He was in huge demand in the 50's and 60's for recording and playing live. He even had minor hits of his own.

Bert was a staunch supporter of the Grand Order of Water Rats, a big variety charity, and for whose work Bert was awarded the OBE. He was made King Rat for 1992 and this was announced at the Annual Ball in November 1991 at which we just happened to be invited. Alison swears it was only because I was drunk that I went and obtained his autograph and had a little chat. What a great guy.