The prickly scouser inside me (ooh err!) is urging me to defend the Philharmonic Hall audience. Reading some of the posts on here and on Twitter could leave someone thinking that the audience was unappreciative, ignorant, rude, etc. Far from it.
The phone ringing was unfortunate and its timing freakish and funny. Yes it was disappointing that 'Soldier On' was dropped in the circumstances...but also understandable. I thought RH and the band took it in their stride. No-one could blame them for cutting their losses and moving on rather than soldiering on. (I'll get my coat).
It certainly didn't taint the gig for me. In fact, I suspect I will reflect on it being the best Hawley gig I've attended to date - and my enjoyment of Richard and the band has taken me to contrasting venues across the UK from the awful Manchester Academy to the awesome Royal Albert Hall.
Hawley has even taken me 'up the arse' in Derbyshire twice. A dark, dank venue where Vodafone does not venture.
The Philharmonic is a wonderful, perfect arena to enjoy music, and I was delighted - proud even - that the audience rose to its feet in admiration and thanks at the end. Prickly scouser signing off.