Rolling Stones' 1964 gig in Willenhall to be remembered with concert

A concert will celebrate 60 years since youth leaders actually did get what they wanted when they persuaded The Rolling Stones to play a local gig.

The band came to Willenhall in the West Midlands on 5 February 1964 and people still talk about the gig, which cost just six shillings for a ticket.

A Rolling Stones tribute act have been booked to perform at the same venue.

Organiser Nigel Dutton, from Willenhall Lock Stock, said he wanted to celebrate the musical history of the area.

He said the average age of fans at the original gig, at the town's former public baths, was just 14 and he had spoken to a number of women who had attended.

They told "tales of kissing the Stones and being told off by their parents," he said.

Mr Dutton has also heard from people who worked for local taxi firm Constables.

One taxi driver told a story of a young man jumping in the back of his car while shouting, "Save me from the girls."

The young man then exited from the opposite side of the vehicle and the driver then realised afterwards it was Mick Jagger, who had been looking to be given shelter.

The same taxi firm has restored one of its original vehicles from the time and will invite concert-goers to repeat the scene, passing through the taxi from one side to the other.

Mr Dutton said Willenhall Lock Stock, a not-for profit-group which organises a local music festival ever September, will be held at The Willows, once Willenhall Baths on 1 March.

The venue still has its original stage and the 1964 experience will be completed with meals from the local fish and chip shop, he said.

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