Sir Cliff on his happiest Xmas in three years
Best’s Gloria Hunniford catches up with her friend Sir Cliff Richard to talk about Christmas, his faith, and how he intends to celebrate now those allegations are behind him…
Our very own Gloria Hunniford and ‘Peter Pan of pop’ Sir Cliff Richard have been the best of friends since 1969. So who better than Gloria to speak exclusively to the 77-yearold music legend, who’s synonymous with the festive season, to find out what he’s up to this Christmas and his plans for 2018… So how are you spending Christmas this year, Cliff? I will be in the welcome sunshine of Florida, with good friends and some family. Last year was my first Christmas free of the two-and-a-half years of false allegations I had to face day to day. It was more horrendous than I can put into words.
Do you think you’ve recovered from that whole ordeal now?
Well, people I meet tell me I am looking much better, which in turn makes me feel better. I used to look in the mirror and see an old man looking back – now the younger version has returned! It feels like a weight has been lifted – although it frustrates me that when anyone taps into a computer, up pop those accusations. That part of modern media still upsets me greatly.
Will it be very hot in Florida?
Yes – it is going to be fantastic. The warmth of the sun will be very welcome on these bones of mine. My mum and dad always used to say that one day they would live in a warm climate again, so I feel lucky. I also have a home in Barbados. In a way, I’m living my parents’ dream.
When you say ‘again’…
My parents, Roger and Dorothy, were ex-pats who left India when the country was given independence.
Did your dad lose his job?
Yes. He worked for a railway catering company. My parents had to sell everything just to fund the sea passage home.
What is a typical Christmas Day like for you now?
I love to go to church on Christmas morning – I adore singing carols and, as we live in such a divided world these days, it is lovely to come together and celebrate the Christmas story. When we sit down to eat, there will be 10 of us around the table. Although we had turkey in November for Thanksgiving, we will definitely be having another – I am a stickler for tradition.
Who would you have with you for your dream Christmas?
If I could time-travel, I would go back to my childhood Christmases in India, on the outskirts of Calcutta [now known as Kolkata], where I lived till the age of eight and was known as Harry Webb. I vividly remember that long table of about 20 people, all laughing and chatting. Dad was born in India and was one of 11, and Mum was one of six, so there was always a huge family gathering.
Do you have a tendency to overindulge at this time of year?
I stick to a strict diet throughout the year, so I really look forward to Christmas Day – I scoff everything in sight! I have even sourced a shop in Florida that sells mince pies!
Do you enjoy festive TV?
I don’t watch much television as I am too busy eating and drinking, usually wine from my own vineyard in Portugal. But I do love movies. I really miss the tradition of watching the Queen’s Speech, followed by Morecambe and Wise.
Are you difficult to buy for?
No, I’m very easy to please! I’m good at accepting and appreciating everything. The best present I ever bought myself was a Rolls-Royce that I got with the cheque from my first UK hit, Move It. But not all gifts have to be expensive. My next most precious gift came from a fan – a key ring with a little torch attached. It’s been invaluable. I was always fumbling at the door, looking for the keyhole, but I’ve been using that present for 30 years.
Do you ever give people copies of your calendar as a gift?
No, but tradition has it when I go to Barbados in the new year, all my pals want one. Who knows, maybe they’re using them as dartboards!
Do you always sing Mistletoe And Wine at Christmas?
Yes, it’s mandatory for fans that I sing that one, and Saviour’s Day.
Are you going to make any New Year’s resolutions?
No, but I have so much to look forward to in 2018. I want to make a new Christmas album next year, as well as an album of brand-new material. My really big date is in October, where I will celebrate my birthday performing at the Royal Albert Hall – and then I go on tour.
Sounds fantastic. Thanks Cliff, and Merry Christmas!
And to you, Gloria – and to all best readers! I hope it’s a wonderful one.
‘I used to look in the mirror and see an old man – now the younger version has returned!’