Simon Rushworth
Geordie rockers the Quireboys are no strangers to combining their passion for sport and rock n roll.
But after launching their career with a place on the Rolling Stones’ undercard at St James’s Park in 1990 the band has gone back to its Newcastle roots.
Today saw the first airing of Biking For Bobby – the first new Quireboys’ material for three years – as Spike and co. throw their weight behind a genuine local hero.
Former Newcastle United full back Robbie Elliott is cycling more than 3,500 miles in memory of Sir Bobby Robson.
And Bike For Bobby will raise funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
“I was so excited when a mutual friend brought us together,” said Spike. “I’d never met Robbie before but I’m a huge Toon fan and both of us loved and respected Sir Bobby.
“When there was talk of the Quireboys penning the official song for Bike For Bobby I just jumped at the chance.
“It was a pleasure to meet Robbie in the studio and I hope he likes what he heard!”
Biking For Bobby was aired during this evening’s edition of North East Tonight – a Newcastle-based news programme covering the north of England.
And there are plans to release the song as a download single before October 17 when Elliott and co-rider Phil Gray start their cycle from Lisbon to Newcastle.
“We recorded the song at Blast Recordings in Newcastle,” added Quireboys’ Blyth-born guitarist Paul Guerin.
“When we told Robbie that’s where Thin Lizzy had made their first album in almost 30 years I think he was suitably impressed!
“He’s a great lad and was an incredible servant to Newcastle United. What he’s doing now is remarkable and a fitting tribute to Sir Bobby.”
The Quireboys will play an intimate show at Newcastle’s Cluny on November 13 – two days after Elliott and Gray complete their marathon trek.
And there’s every chance that there will be a homecoming party to remember – starting sometime around seven o’clock.
“It would be great to get Robbie and Phil down there to toast what we hope will be a successful journey,” added Spike.
“I’m sure they won’t be short of people to buy them a few beers!”
To donate to Bike For Bobby you can text TREF03 to 70070 and state the amount you wish to pledge – eg. TREF03 £10
The Quireboys’ music – as well as the band – will also appear in the official Bike For Bobby Film. The documentary will be given a London premiere in November and you can contribute to its production – and see your name on the big screen – by visiting www.indiegogo.com/bikeforbobby
For more information on Bike For Bobby visit www.robbieelliottfoundation.com
The Quireboys will release a brand new studio album in 2013 and tour the UK before Christmas. Follow the band via twitter @TheQuireboys