Radio Caroline announced that Francis had become a patron of the "Ross Revenge" charity on 5th November, with the following posted on their website.
"Status Quo frontman, Francis Rossi, has officially become a patron of Radio Caroline's charity MV Ross Revenge Home of Radio Caroline, established two years ago to drive vital fundraising efforts to restore and preserve the historic former pirate radio ship, Ross Revenge.
Rossi lends his support the charity at a pivotal moment, with Ross Revenge needing urgent structural repairs in dry dock to secure its future as a key piece of broadcast history.
Radio Caroline, the legendary offshore radio station that transformed UK radio in the 1960s, has taken a major step in safeguarding its legacy by setting up a dedicated charity focused on raising funds for Ross Revenge. Since taking to the waves in 1983, Ross Revenge has served as an important symbol of independent broadcasting, resilience, and freedom of expression, anchored in the hearts of millions of listeners and fans. The station still regularly broadcasts from the vessel today.
Despite being maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers, extensive wear from years at sea means that Ross Revenge requires urgent structural repairs, requiring it to be taken to dry dock. These repairs are crucial to maintain the ship's structural integrity and ensure its survival as an important part of both broadcasting and deep sea fishing history.
"The Ross Revenge is more than just a ship, it is an important part of British musical history that deserves to be preserved," said Francis Rossi. "Radio Caroline allowed many bands like ours to be heard – and I am glad now to repay the favour by lending my own voice in support of this project."
Radio Caroline station manager Peter Moore said: "We are thrilled to welcome Francis Rossi as a patron for this important cause. His support, along with the public's generosity, is essential to protect Ross Revenge and all it represents. We're determined to secure a future for this legendary ship, and with Francis on board, we're confident that our goal will resonate with even more people."
Radio Caroline's new charity initiative aims to generate the support needed to cover dry docking costs and conduct essential repairs that will extend the ship's life for years to come.
Ross Revenge is on the National Historic Ships register."
Revisit the November 2024 event list
Rhino played a "one off" show with "The Blue Water Giants" (formally "Lost Fenders") on 23rd November at Lymington Yacht Club in Hampshire.
Rhino posted the following message on his social media before the event.
"I shall be spanking my bass at Royal Lymington Yacht Club funnily enough in Lymington, Hampshire this Saturday, the 23rd, with my mates the Blue Water Giants. We've been doing this on and off for a couple of years, normally private or charity shows. However, this one's a rare non exclusive event and open to the public. It's a great band, we play songs the various members have been involved with over the years, and it's a great fun evening. Take a look at who we've collectively played with and you'll see what I mean, so many fantastic songs there.
The Blue Water Giants features world-renowned musicians Josh Phillips (organist from Procol Harum), John "Rhino" Edwards, bassist (Rhino's Revenge, Status Quo), Neil Taylor (guitarist from Tears for Fears and Robbie Williams' Band), Sam Tanner (pianist and vocals from Brother Strutt), Freddie Edwards (guitarist from Flawes, Rhino's Revenge & Status Quo), and Craig Alexander on drums.
This show is VERY rare as the Blue Water Giants only occasionally play public shows, so if you fancy a mighty fine rockin' evening, Lymington Yacht Club is the place to be!!!!!! Never thought I'd say that..."
Revisit the November 2024 event list
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