This week: Musician Chas Hodges, from band Chas and Dave, who are playing at the Palace in Bridgwater this week (From Bridgwater Mercury)

This week: Musician Chas Hodges, from band Chas and Dave, who are playing at the Palace in Bridgwater this week

10:23am Wednesday 2nd July 2008 in Your Say By James Beal

CHAS Hodges was born on December 28, 1943, at the North Middlesex Hospital and grew up in North London.

At an early age he learnt to play the piano and guitar, before moving into the music business - working with producer Joe Meek and becoming a session musician for established artists Jerry Lee Lewis and Mike Berry.

Chas then joined cult band Heads Hands and Feet, before meeting bass guitarist Dave Peacock, launching Chas and Dave.

The band became regulars on British television from 1975 onwards, releasing hit singles Rabbit and Gertcha - becoming synonymous with the cockney accent and way of life.

The duo have been touring and releasing material ever since, appearing at Glastonbury and the Royal Albert Hall.

Chas and Dave's songs have become firm favourites with sports fans - including classic Snooker Loopy, and anthems sung on the terraces for their favourite club, Tottenham Hotspurs.

What is the best and worst thing about being on tour?

"I really enjoy going out to new places. I can't think of anything bad."

What is the best and worst thing about your job?

"One of the best things is that you don't have to get up early in the morning. The worst is probably the high cost of taking out insurance."

What was your ambition as a child?

"My ambition was to learn an instrument."

What has been your greatest achievement?

"Playing to 30,000 at Glastonbury."

What characteristic do you dislike most in others and in yourself?

"I can't stand moaners - people who cannot wait to complain. I've got quite used to myself and can't think of anything."

What is your biggest fear?

"Not being able to play the piano ever again."

When and where were you happiest?

"The first thing that springs to mind is living at home, aged three, when my dad was alive."

What three items would you take to a desert island?

"A piano, a guitar and a recording machine."

Who are your dream dinner party guests (maximum five)?

"Mozart, Chopin, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard and Fats Waller."

How would you like to be remembered?

"By my music."