David Cassidy In The News
We wish this could be for ever - say fans
November 15, 2001
The Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England UK)
David Cassidy fanatic Linda Robinson's dream came true last night when she met her idol - thanks to the Chronicle.The Gateshead mum chatted to the 1970s pop heartthrob before his sold-out Newcastle City Hall gig, and, in the words of one of his biggest hits, told him: "I Think I Love You."
It was the culmination of a 30-year dream for the schools' drugs advisor, who entered a Chronicle competition an incredible 943 times to meet the star!
And although she didn't end up the winner, Cassidy personally invited her, to go backstage.
Linda gave the singer flowers, but was denied a kiss - as it would upset his stage make-up!
"It's a dream come true. I can't thank the Chronicle enough," she said. "I can't really remember what David said to me, but he did say he thought it sweet I brought him flowers, and he signed a poster for me.
"He was much skinnier than I thought - but I still love him! I just wish I could have kissed him."
Linda, 44, of Low Fell, was joined backstage by her cousin Julie Davis, of Lobley Hill.
She was still hoarse today after the gig. "I was like a goldfish throughout the show. I was just screaming and couldn't speak," she said.
"Gary, my husband, just thinks I'm sad, and my son Jonathan, 11, can't believe I can't remember what he said to me," Linda said.
Also backstage was our competition winner, Gillian Bainbridge, 42, of Whitley Bay, who also won front row tickets to the gig with her friend Deborah Brown.
"When I went to see him in 1974 in London and Glasgow, he was like a dot in the distance. He was right above me this time around, a fantastic view, so thank you very, very much," Gillian said.
The atmosphere at the City Hall was electric when Cassidy, 51, took the stage.
Most fans were women of a certain age who needed no encouragement to step back in time with the man who used to adorn their bedroom walls.
Cassidy didn't disappoint, and by the end of the night, underwear and flowers were being hurled on stage at him.
He sang all his old hits, including I Think I Love You and Cherish, as well as new tracks.
"Everyone was singing along, but the old songs got the best response," said long-time fan Lorraine Watts, of Wallsend.
