| The band arrived at the beach just after 2:30 and they were met by quite a large crowd that had already turned up for the concert. "Well, I must say that I'm quite surprised", Chas admitted. "I didn't expect anyone to be here!" They began to unpack their instruments but, as they did, the heavens opened and rain started to pour down. The audience obviously didn't think that it was a passing shower and soon dispersed, leaving an array of soggy deckchairs in their wake. At least the band had the shelter of the stage to keep them dry... "That does it", Charlie stormed, "I'm too busy to waste any more of my time here." He got out his mobile phone and dialled. He was calling Stew and he answered straight away. "Stulips" "Stew, it's Charlie. Your concert is a washout and we're not staying a minute longer in that caravan. I'm a councillor, get me out of here". "I'll tell you what. Give it until half past three and if it's still raining and there's no audience, I'll still make sure that you're all paid in full. Then go back to the caravan and get your things and I'll arrange accommodation at the Ambassador Hotel. The remaining concerts are in the Pavillion and I really want you to enjoy this week - it's my way of apologising for not being able to play with the band." Stew hung up. Charlie relayed his conversation to the others. The rain eased off just after 3:00 but there was no-one left on the beach by then. "Come on", said Wayne. "Let's go before the rain starts again". "But what about the money?" Dave asked. "He won't know if we stayed or not", Moses said. "Let's go". They all left quickly and set off towards the caravan. Suddenly there was a huge bang and the stage that they had just been sheltering in exploded into a thousand pieces! |