Grantham-born legend Vince Eager holds informative talk about his career

A Grantham rock ‘n’ roll legend spoke about his journey growing up in the town to performing all over the world.

Vince Eager, 83, delivered his ‘Life After Eurovision’ talk at the Harrowby Lane Methodist Church Hall on Wednesday.

The event, organised by the Grantham branch of the Lincolnshire Family History Society, attracted over 40 members and visitors.

Grantham-born Vince, real name Roy Taylor, described his early days in the town’s Skiffle era through to his leaving the town and performing all over the world.

He spoke of his friendships with many American rock ‘n’ rollers of the 1960’s and of the opportunities offered to him over the years that were sometimes missed.

Richard Jefferies, branch chairman, thanked Vince for the informative talk after some rapturous applause.

Vince began his music career with The Vagabonds, making it to the final of the World Skiffle Championships and appeared live on TV in 1957 on ‘Come Dancing’, finishing second.

He was discovered by impresario Larry Parnes and joined the likes of Billy Fury and Marty Wilde in the Parnes stable. He became a familiar face on TV shows such as Drumbeat. For five years he starred in the West End musical Elvis, winning awards and acclaim.