Bands to play charity gig in support of drummer (From York Press)

Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club is coming to York to play charity gigs for Phil Calvert

8:47am Friday 21st August 2009 in Search By Mark Stead, mark.stead@thepress.co.uk

THE Beatles made it one of the world’s most iconic music venues – now Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club is coming to York.

It’s all because of the generosity and fighting spirit of a York musician whose battle against serious illness inspired other bands to stage a charity gig in his hometown.

Phil Calvert, 62, the drummer in York beat group Flashback who are regular performers at the famous Merseyside club, was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus earlier this year and has just recently undergone a successful operation.

Now a string of bands, including Phil’s will take to the stage at The Duchess in Stonebow on October 25 – the first-ever non-Liverpool gig billed under the Cavern Club’s name.

As well as Flashback – which also comprises singer/guitarist Pete ‘Willo’ Wilson and bassist Kev Benson – the concert will boast performances from 1960s groups The Undertakers, The Mojo’s and The Shakers, among others. Proceeds will be split between York Against Cancer and Liverpool-based Alder Hey Hospital’s Imagine Appeal.

“Phil’s illness stunned us and the bands originally wanted to do a concert to help him convalesce, but he said the money should help charities,” said co-organiser Dave Jamieson, whose Merseyside music know-how has brought the groups together.

“That’s the way he is – a thoroughly nice human being.”

Father-of-two Phil, of Heslington, said: “While having chemotherapy, I still kept playing, and the operation appears to have been successful.

“When the concert idea was mentioned, I just thought the money should go to good causes. I’m happy we can do something to help others.”

Also involved in the organising the night is Phil’s goddaughter Kirsten Ovenden, who said: “It’s so humbling that all these people think as much of him as I do.

“Everybody has been so generous and for the Cavern Club to allow their name to be used outside York for the first time is brilliant.”

Phil was best man at the wedding of City of York Council Conservative group leader Ian Gillies. Coun Gillies said: “He’s been my best friend for 50 years and deserves so much credit for asking for this event to help York Against Cancer.”

Tickets, which cost £10 in advance and £12 on the night, are available by phoning 08700 600100.