Gary Brooker's 1977 Concert Tail-Suit

As it was offered for sale to Palers

Only very rarely does a Procol Harum item come into circulation that the collector can be absolutely certain is unique. This is Gary Brooker's stage suit, as worn by him on the European leg of the Something Magic tour. It was made for him in February 1977 by Bambi Ballard, London tailor to the rock gentry.

As the illustration shows, the suit comprises an ornamented green tailcoat and plain green trousers. The motifs are worked in white except for the magic-eye symbol on the right upper arm, which is in white and gold. Both garments are in superb condition and have been recently dry-cleaned.

Gary entrusted the suit to 'Beyond the Pale' at the Manchester Fans' Convention (see photo) specifically so that it could be sold at auction to raise funds for the BJ Wilson Memorial Fund.

We are delighted to fulfil this role, and we offer his stage-suit for sale according to his instructions: visit the bay auction page to place your bid knowing that whatever you spend will go directly to the family of the late BJ Wilson.

About the tailor: Bambi Ballard is the daughter of one of Britain's first jazz writers, the novelist Eric Ballard. She worked on films in Greece and Spain and in the rag trade, as well as a short spell at the Mermaid Theatre, before she began making shirts, notably for Sammy Davis. After designing for Elkie Brooks, she decided to specialise in fashion for rock performers. In 1972 she finished theatre design at Chelsea and Wimbledon art schools. The first band she made clothes for was Illusion. She also designed for The Bay City Rollers, The Sweet, Steeleye Span and Alex Harvey. Bambi is married to Robin Denselow, erstwhile rock critic for The Guardian, and director of Panorama.

The suit will be despatched to the eventual owner by Registered Post from the UK.This is a very exciting opportunity for any Procol Harum / Gary Brooker fan! Visit the eBay auction page to place your bid

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