RIDIN' THE FREIGHT TRAIN WITH
                                                              CHAS McDEVITT

Last update
24/Jan/2003

The climax of Chas' year as King Rat was celebrated on 30 November 2003 when the Grand Order of Water Rats held their annual Charity Ball at The Grosvenor House. 1200 guests enjoyed an exciting evening full of fun, fine food and excellent music. The theme for the evening was "The Beat Goes On". Appropriately Joe Brown and The Bruvvers headlined the cabaret together with Joe Pasquale whose brand of zany comedy sent the audience into paroxysms of laughter.




From the moment Roy Hudd delivered his amusing grace, the atmosphere was set for a great night. Chas welcomed everyone and the ever glamorous Anita Harris spoke for the ladies. Brendan Healy replied on behalf of the guests. His way-out irreverent style had the room in hysterics.


Brian May featured in a video clip singing and playing with Chas, Lonnie Donegan's "Putting On The Style". Brian apologised for his absence before handing over to Gordon Giltrap live, who played "The Queen" in the manner Brian had played at the Buckingham Palace Jubilee celebrations. This was pre-recorded as Brian was in South Africa for the Aids Concert in the presence of Nelson Mandela.




Notable guests included, Sir Tom & Lady Courtney, Mr & Mrs Bill Wyman, Mr & Mrs James Herbert, Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden) and numerous artistes from Coronation Street and Eastenders.
Awards were presented to: George Melly, Living Legend; Rolf Harris, Rats Showbiz Personality for 2003; Dr. Jim Marshall, Badge of Merit; Terry Burgess, Rat of the Year and Keith Simmons, King Rat's Award.

New officers for the year 2004 were announced and to Chas' amazement he was elected King Rat for a second year running. This has only occurred on five occasions in the Rats' 115 year history.



Back row: Don Shearman, Jimmy Perry, Chris Woodward, Joe Pasquale, John Bardon, Rick Wakeman, Roger De Courcey, Bryn Williams.
Front row: Doug McKenzie, Chas McDevitt, Chris Emmett. Missing: Bob 'The Cat' Bevan, Richard Gauntlett, Mike Martin, Wyn Calvin.
Dancing to the Latin sounds of Palenka, and later Sweet Home Chicago, kept the Grosvenor House buzzing and rocking until gone 2a.m.


For more information on the Grand Order of Water Rats please go to www.gowr.net and www.eabf.org.uk/gowr.htm