Yes, that's right James. The event was very small compared to subsequent Nelsonica events and I don't believe Bill was scheduled to be at Nelsonica01 (there was no indication of this in the itinerary), but then the organising team announced he was going to pop in for a surprise meet and greet.

Hi Garry. I must have got wind of Nelsonica01 through the old website so made the decision to get to York from Northampton that weekend - and it was upstairs at the Bay Horse where I met you! I handed over my fiver and you stamped my hand so I could come and go. Of course, I stayed to meet a few other fans, listen to the music and read the literature. Then a surprise announcement: Bill Nelson is coming along for a quick meet and greet. I had last seen Bill perform in 1998 at the "Sundaze" Festival in Northamptonshire, where he was kind enough to autograph my festival programme cover after his show. To have the opportunity to meet Bill again was a tremendous bonus. I can't remember what I asked Bill, but he must have thought I looked a bit younger than the other "old crusties" in attendance and asked me how old I was. All I could say was that I was 13 years old in 1975 when Futurama moved me in a direction I still follow to this day. I attended every Nelsonica thereafter except one. That first one was the start of a quite brilliant annual pilgrimage associated with wonderful memories. I hope you're keeping well and thanks for the opportunity to offer this little bit of nostalgia. All the best, Douglas

That is a very fine interpretation of a classic Be Bop Deluxe song! Really enjoyed your vocals. Merry Christmas!

The speed with which these release anniversaries come round is a little bit frightening. Seven years! Where have they gone?!

Could not agree more, Alec. I was lucky enough to be at the Nelsonica when this album was given out as part of the admission fee. I can't believe it was 15 years ago! I am pretty certain that Bill played Tin Sings Bones live as well; the sound was amazing and I was standing about five feet from the stage. Those Duke outings were something wonderful!

Dear Bill, I am very sorry to learn of this very sad news. You have written often about your mum, with very thoughtful posts, where you have shared your inner feelings. I know this loss of your mother will be felt acutely by you and your family. I am thinking of you all at this time. Take care, Douglas

Thanks, David, for your reply. I've checked National Rail Enquiries and it looks like I can get to Sheffield, possibly, but from there it could be a bus, presumably up the M1? Either way, I won't be in Leeds by 18:00 I don't think. Well, I hope people are safe up there despite the weather warnings. I will set off at lunchtime and hope for the best. It will be an adventure!

Thanks, Steve. Appreciate the reply.

@Andy George Hi Andy. Just sent you a chat message. I definitely want the ticket. All the best, Doug

Hi Andy, If it's still available, I would love to take that ticket off your hands. Cheers, Doug

Hey ho, another performance missed. Was at a remote group function on Saturday and unable to get to a PC or mobile phone to purchase a ticket come 17:00. The streaming of Bill's 70th birthday performance was excellent, so I hope something similar can be arranged for November. Good luck, Bill (and the Nelsonica Team), with all of your preparations!