My first rock’n’roll gig was Hemsby in October 2009 and I wandered round wondering what planet I’d landed on – I had no knowledge, no reference points and no pals. I knew nothing about rock’n’roll but I did know about DJing so I sidled up to the main hall DJ booth and imposed myself on the guy spinning the wax, despite knowing that being interrupted mid-session was a big no-no with many DJs (including myself). Thank the Gods of rock’n’roll the DJ I question was Wildcat Pete. He hadn’t got a clue who I was but within seconds he was treating me like an old pal, pushing 45 labels under my nose, raving about the next disc in line, bemoaning the lack of time he was getting on the decks. And all with the enthusiasm of a teenager and a big smile on his face. My rock’n’roll education started there, and it continued every time our paths crossed, Pete always full of ideas, more recommendations than I could ever remember, and full enthusiasm for everything rock’n’roll. Thanks Pete

Rock On, Johnny Hop