Watford to 'explore every eventuality' to stage gig (From Watford Observer)

Watford to 'explore every eventuality' to stage gig

8:10am Friday 27th March 2009

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More stories about: Elton John

By Frank Smith »

Sir Elton John wants to hold another money-spinning concert at Vicarage Road next summer with the proceeds going towards new signings for Watford.

The superstar celebrated his 62nd birthday on Wednesday by regaining his title as the Hornets’ Honorary Life President.

He relinquished the position in November in protest against the direction the club were heading under former chairman Graham Simpson and chief executive Mark Ashton.

Sir Elton raised around £1.3m when he held a concert in June 2005 as part of the ‘Buy Back the Vic’ campaign. But the rock star stunned the Watford hierarchy by stating that he wanted the cash to go towards strengthening former manager Aidy Boothroyd’s playing staff.

Now it seems the multi-millionaire is likely to have his wish granted second time around should the gig go ahead next summer.

Watford chairman Jimmy Russo said: “I am grateful that he will consider that and we will do everything we can to make it happen.

“Elton has specifically stated to me in the past that he would like that money to go towards players and new acquisitions.”

Hornets chief executive Julian Winter added: “Clearly, we were all delighted by Sir Elton’s acknowledgement of a potential concert here at Vicarage Road, and we’re already exploring ways of us facilitating this next close season.

“Of course, much will depend on the state of the reconstruction of the stadium at that time and how that will fit around the major logistical operation that is hosting a concert.

“What we will ensure is that we explore every eventuality because, clearly, there is nothing more we would like to see than Sir Elton John back at his spiritual home.”

The music star’s spokesman Gary Farrow could not confirm whether the concert will definitely go ahead at this stage, but Hornets director Graham Taylor said: “It was his idea. It was not something we asked him to do, but it’s another sign of his commimtent to Watford and that has always been there.”

Fellow boardroom member Stuart Timperley added: “He’s a very generous hearted bloke and loves the club and if he will commit to do that, that would be fantastic for us. And I’m sure if he says he’s going to do it, he’ll do it.”

Manager Brendan Rodgers joked: “All we need to do now is find the biggest stadium in the world, fill it and then we can get all that money.

“He has been terrific since coming back on board and has been very supportive,” the Hornets remarked on a more serious note.

“There is a lot of work to go into something like that so it is one for the future, but it is great that we may be able to get some more money to get players in.

“Next season we will not have much money, but I am confident we can do well next year and keep improving and then we can see about the summer.

“As for the concert, it would be great for Watford and everyone concerned.”

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