Larne band Springfield reunites after 41 years

Springfield in 1975. Back Row L-R: Stewart Gillespie and Gerry Browne.
Front row L-R: Richard Geddis, Esler Burke, Brian Clarke INLT-06-701-con — Springfield in 1975. Back Row L-R: Stewart Gillespie and Gerry Browne. Front row L-R: Richard Geddis, Esler Burke, Brian Clarke INLT-06-701-con

The popular local group, who were the resident Saturday night band at the former Drumnagreagh Hotel from 1971-1974, are set to perform a one-off gig in aid of Larne Lifeboats.

Lead singer Esler Burke will be joined ons tage by lead guitarist Stewart Gillespie, bass player Gerry Brown, rhythm ghitarist Cathal Rowan and rhythm guitarist and singer Brian Clarke and drummer Richard Geddis.

Esler told the Times that the band had a large following during its Seventies heyday.

Springfield in 2015, 40 years later. Back Row L-R: Stewart Gillespie, Gerry Browne,
Front Row L-R: Richard Geddis, Esler Burke,Cahal Rowan. INLT-06-700-con — Springfield in 2015, 40 years later. Back Row L-R: Stewart Gillespie, Gerry Browne, Front Row L-R: Richard Geddis, Esler Burke,Cahal Rowan. INLT-06-700-con

“We were a big pop band, we came in after the show band era and we played all around the country,” he recalled.

“We played in the Flamingo in Ballymena, Caproni’s in Bangor, the Orpheus in Belfast, Larne’s Bamboo Cafe and other places.

“Then we split up and people went to work and to other bands.”

Four decades later, a phone call between Esler and Stuart reignited the group’s desire to play one last show.

“Stuart had gone to England when we split up, but he is now living in Navan and we said we would try and get everyone together again,” Esler continued.

“We have been rehearsing together in Navan to get it as tight as possible.

“We will be playing songs from our era by groups such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

“It’s a one-off and we won’t be doing it again.”

The concert will take place at East Antrim Boat Club on Saturday, February 13 from 7pm-late.

Booking is essential. To book telephone Bill on 07860034933 or email [email protected]. Tickets are £12.