Name
Romily Parker
Age
29
Occupation
I write jingles and do voiceovers for Brum FM in Birmingham. (It’s not all double-glazing commercials, honestly!)
Role in The Pinstripes
Singer
Favourite album:
That’s easy. October Road by James Taylor. It’s the first place I go to when I want a real feel-good album.
Favourite food:
I’d have to say my aunt’s cakes. They’re heavenly.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m a bit of a dreamer. I love music and my friends. I believe that anything’s possible, even if it doesn’t look like it. I love high street fashion and probably spend too much money on clothes, especially outfits for gigging. Oh, and I’m nothing like my mother!
What would be your dream gig?
I’d love to perform an American Songbook set at The Symphony Hall in Birmingham, supported by a full orchestra. And I’d want The Pinstripes to be there, naturally.
Tell us about your quest
It’s just something I feel I have to do. Even though I was only with my handsome stranger for a short time, there was a connection I felt with him that was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. That kind of thing doesn’t happen every day and I would be an idiot if I didn’t try to find him again. I know people think I’m insane – I agree with them to a certain extent – but I’m excited at the prospect of spending a year of my life following my heart. So even if I never see him again, at least I will be able to say that I tried, you know?
CHARLIE
Name
Charlie Wakeley
Age
29
Occupation
I’m Assistant Manager at GalleryQ - my dad’s art gallery.
Role in The Pinstripes
Drummer
Favourite album:
Mint Jam by the Yellowjackets. It’s a classic – have you heard it? You haven’t? You’re seriously missing out.
Favourite food:
Anything that Tom cooks. He’s a genius in the kitchen.
How would you describe yourself?
Suave, sophisticated, devilishly handsome… no, I’m joking. I’m pretty confident, like a good laugh and love my friends. I can be competitive, especially when I’m with the guys (seriously, don’t take me on in a bike race – you will lose!) But I like to think I’m a good friend, a good listener and, at the risk of sounding like an idiot, someone you would like to hang out with.
What would be your dream gig?
I’d love to play Ronnie Scott’s with the guys.
What do you think about Romily’s quest?
That’s a difficult one because obviously she’s my mate and I want her to be happy but I’m not sure this bloke is worth finding. I mean, who kisses a girl and then legs it? I don’t know if it’s a bit of a reaction because of the thing that happened with us last Christmas, perhaps. If I’m really honest, I don’t think either of us have dealt with that yet and maybe if we do then this quest of hers will become redundant…
WREN
Name
Wren Malloy
Age
29
Occupation
Drama Teacher at Harborne Academy, Birmingham
Role in The Pinstripes
Bass player/vocalist
Favourite album:
Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol. 2 by Jill Scott. The woman is awesome – I mean, just listen to her! Soul and power and timing that takes your breath away. Love her.
Favourite food:
Anything with chocolate.
How would you describe yourself?
I know some people think I’m a bit over-the-top, but I like to think I’m just being true to myself. I’m an extrovert and I love diving into whatever life throws at me. I hope I’m a good friend – you’d have to ask Rom whether I am or not! I’d say I’m a happy person, by and large and I love nothing better than having a good laugh. I look for unusual, out-of-the-ordinary things, especially clothes. That’s why my bank manager despairs of me – but life’s too short to worry about saving, right?
What would be your dream gig?
Somewhere crazy like the Hollywood Bowl. Where the greats have played. It would be unbelievably cool to stand on the stage where Sinatra, The Beatles and Hendrix have performed and be able to say ‘I’m playing here tonight’.
What do you think about Romily’s quest?
I’ll be honest with you, when she first mentioned it I thought she was a loon. But then it’s just Rom all over – that unshakeable belief in the possible that never fades. Now I’m all for it – I mean, I saw the look in her eyes when she was telling me about the mystery guy and it gave me goosebumps. Everybody looks for that world-stopping moment in love, don’t they? This man has really got to her and I really want her to find him. Although, confidentially, I really want her and Charlie to get their act together – they’re so perfect for each other but neither of them will admit it. Maybe Rom’s quest will make him sit up and take notice of her at last. Either way, I just want my best friend to be happy.
UNCLE DUDLEY
Name
Dudley Parker
Age
62
Occupation
Retired engineer, now skipper of narrowboat Our Pol.
Favourite album:
Blonde on Blonde by Bob Dylan. He’s the master of music, as far as I’m concerned. Our Rom took me to see him at the NIA in Birmingham a couple of years ago and I just stood there with my gob open, in proper awe. Magsie can’t stand him but she doesn’t get much choice when we’re on Our Pol – it’s Bob or nothing!
.Favourite food:
Anything my Magsie makes.
How would you describe yourself?
A hoper, a dreamer and a bit of a daft old romantic.
What do you think about Romily’s quest?
The thing is about our Romily is that she’s cut from the same cloth as me. We believe that things are possible, no matter what. I’m so proud of my niece – she’s a great kid and I know she’ll be happy whatever happens. But Magsie and me are determined to do all we can to help her find this chap. If he makes her even half as happy as my Magsie makes me, I’ll be over the moon.