Having known Bertie since I was a young tot and spent many a happy time with him I know one of my memories will bring a smile to many a face!

About seven years ago I received a call from my Uncle Tony to tell me a film was to made in Polstead and did I want to go along with him and Hazel to audition for a bit part.

Oh, yes! So off we set with combed hair and a sparkle to make our fortunes. Along the way (probably in the Marine) we bumped into Bertie who said he would come for the 'crack'. All the way there he said he didn't know what the fuss was about and we would be lucky to get in. Having queued for a couple of hours the director scanned the line of hopefuls and suddenly pointed in our direction. "Whooha" said Uncle Tony, "I think we are in". But it wasn't us he was interested in it was Bertie and many an occasion afterwards he would proudly declare "They didn't want you youngsters, they know a "Skiffler" when they see one". And so Bertie will always be on film in his turn ups and trilby hat playing in a band :-)

Much love Bertie
Sam & Dave xx (The Shotley Two!)