My school mates and I were big Slade fans and it was amazing how many of them had aunties and cousins and second cousins all going out with Noddy at the same time.

In 1973 I managed to get two tickets in the front row at the Civic Hall to see them live.

I remember leaving the concert covered in glitter, feeling thoroughly entertained and stone deaf for about two days. I can never forget Jim playing the violin, Dave prancing around in a silver lame suit, Don thrashing the hell out of his drums and Noddy’s rasping voice belting out hit after hit.

His iconic mirrored top hat and platform boots aren’t easy to forget either.

Slade were a brilliant live band. Pure rock and roll, no nonsense no miming and very loud.

I believe Slade were the loudest band in the world at the time and Noddy knew how to work the crowd.

I thought Jim and Noddy were very underrated as writers. Between them they penned some memorable songs and six Number Ones. It’s not bad going in my book.

My musical tastes have matured slightly over the years, nevertheless Noddy, Jim, Dave and Don, I salute you. Thanks for some great memories and also for giving Wolverhampton national and international recognition to boot.

The 70s were a great decade. Slade were top of the pile and Wolves were not a bad football team either.

Heady days indeed.

Will Morgan, Webb Street, Willenhall.