IN the second week of our celebrity look back series with former Mercury photographer, Keith Painter, we reveal Michael Ball OBE in the 80's.

Keith, who now lives in the Czech Republic, recalls how Michael, an actor and singer, performed in the town hall.

Michael's father, Tony Ball MBE, used to live in Bridgwater and worked at a garage in the Quantock Road area, thought to be owned by his brother, Harry Ball.

Keith said: "This is a photo of the famous borrowed son of Bridgwater, Michael Ball.

"He is an internationally famous musical and recording star and visited Bridgwater and sung, maybe in the town hall, in the 80’s.

"I don’t have a date when he was here but I would guess between 1985 and 1990.

"He is the son of Son of Tony Ball MBE and Ruth and apparently they are from Bridgwater.

"The Times has referred to Tony Ball as one of the best after dinner speakers in Britain.

"He started his career as an apprentice on the shopfloor of the Austin Motor Co. and rose to become World Sales Chief of BL, Rover and Jaguar Cars.

"Michael's uncle, Harry Ball, owned an Austin dealership which was based opposite the cinema in Market Street and was, in 1999, called Malvern Tyres- no idea what it is today.

"This photo was probably never published and I just wish I could remember more about it- maybe someone will."

Mercury reader, Sue Pomeroy, remembers where the picture was taken,
She said: "It was Harry and Mary Ball's Diamond wedding anniversary and Bill Young, a family friend of the Balls asked a small group from the operatic society to provide some musical entertainment. 


"Michael Ball, their grandson performed and we all sang with him. 
"He was starring in Aspects of Love at the time and sang his huge hit, Love Changes Everything.


"What magical moments."


Irene Burden said: "Harry told me about this the next day.
"He was always so pleased when Michael made the trip to see them. 
"Harry was so proud of Michael.


Do you remember Michael Ball coming to Bridgwater or have your own snap with a celebrity to share?
E-mail rebecca.heyes@nqsw.co.uk

 

Do you remember Michael Ball coming to Bridgwater or have your own snap with a celebrity to share?

E-mail rebecca.heyes@nqsw.co.uk