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Talent show winners are left singing blues

Andy Cronshaw
4/12/2003

CLUB members in West Didsbury are so desperate for the return of an imitation Oscar they're offering a year's free membership to whoever brings it back.

The trophy should have been handed to the winners of the Albert Tennis Club Talent Contest, whose rendition of The Crystals' 'Do Ron Ron' and Sony and Cher's 'I Got You Babe' stole the show.

It was the second year the club had run a Stars in Your Eyes-style talent contest but when the victors were announced red-faced member Pete Brady had to admit he'd lost the glittering prize while shopping in Chorlton.

Stella Gill, 54, who'd performed as one of the Crystals, said: "The only reason it was taken off the premises was because we wanted to have it engraved and attach a plinth to it.

"One of the members Pete Brady picked it up from the engravers in Chorlton but then he went shopping. After buying a pair of slippers he put the trophy in the same bag and went on to do some more shopping.

"Suddenly he realised that the bag was gone. He retraced his steps but couldn't find it. Now he's wandering around Chorlton looking for it with his dog Bonzo."

Members believe someone may have picked up the bag by mistake and be unaware of its significance. Now they're appealing for it to be returned to the Albert Club on Old Lansdowne Road by offering a year's free membership to whoever finds it.

Eddie Rawlins, 53, also a Crystals member on the night, added: "It looks like an miniature Oscar but it's only an imitation with fake gold plating. It's worthless so I hope no-one thinks it's real and wants to melt it down."

Whoever returns the trophy will get a year's free membership to the club where there are outdoor flood-lit tennis courts, table tennis, a bar and lounge area and two full-size snooker tables.

Members also hold regular social nights including quizzes and a regular bingo night on Fridays. If you have found the Oscar return it to The Albert Club, Old Lansdowne Road, West Didsbury or call: 0161 445 1056.