When The Clash Grabbed Chips in Saltash Before Iconic Cornwall Gig
A Memorable Cornish Road Trip in a Gold Cortina
Back in October 1981, for many music enthusiasts in the region, there was truly ‘The Only Band That Mattered’ – The Clash. An unforgettable evening was planned at the Cornwall Coliseum in Carlyon Bay, near St Austell, as part of their ‘Radio Clash’ tour. The journey itself was half the adventure, particularly when undertaken in Nobby Hall’s cherished gold Ford Cortina. This iconic car, complete with a distinctive ‘Northern Soul – Keep The Faith’ sticker that stubbornly defied removal, served as the unofficial tour bus for many epic outings, including this 120-mile round trip from Paignton. The excitement was palpable as friends piled into Nobby’s pride and joy, heading west across the Tamar Bridge into Cornwall, eager for a night of groundbreaking punk rock history.
Unexpected Encounter at a Saltash Chippy
The long drive called for a vital refreshment stop, and shortly after crossing into Cornwall, the group found themselves in Saltash. Despite initial reluctance from Nobby, who worried about lingering chip shop aromas in his pristine car, a fish and chip shop was chosen. What unfolded next became a legendary local anecdote: queuing for their traditional Cornish supper, they suddenly realised they were standing directly behind Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, and Topper Headon – The Clash themselves! A brief, slightly awkward conversation ensued between star-struck fans and road-weary rock icons, proving that even the biggest bands appreciate a good bag of chips. This spontaneous local moment adds a unique chapter to Saltash’s history, showcasing how even global stars found a taste of local life, much like how many visitors still love to go to Newquay for its unique blend of surf culture and local charm.
The Coliseum Legacy and Local Memories
Refreshed and still buzzing from their unexpected encounter, the local contingent continued to the Cornwall Coliseum, where The Clash delivered an electrifying 29-song set. The Coliseum, perched dramatically on the beach, was a powerhouse venue for live music for decades, hosting an array of legendary acts from Thin Lizzy to Status Quo. For many in the community, nights like these created indelible memories, marking significant cultural moments in Cornwall. While the Cornwall Coliseum eventually closed and fell into disrepair in the early 2000s, its legacy as a hub for major events lives on in local lore. The tale of The Clash grabbing chips in Saltash before rocking Carlyon Bay is a testament to the unique blend of global music culture and everyday local life that defines Cornwall’s rich community tapestry.
Source: The day The Clash went to Saltash for fish and chips
