Graeme Hardy aka George Formby BEING GEORGE…
Graeme Hardy – posed here on the genuine ex-George Formby International Norton, the story of which is also told in the May 2020 issue of The Classic MotorCycle – is a well-known face at motorsport events for his portrayal of George Formby. His full-leathers performance of Formby songs with his ukulele never fails to attract attention. When did you start your George Formby tribute act?
“I started in 2006. I’ve been into the Formby films for years, since about 1980. I was always keen on motorcycle racing and I saw the No Limit film on a trip to the Isle of Man for the TT and I was intrigued. I had a soft spot for the film and thought I could do a tribute because, well, why not!” Which motorsport event is your favourite?
“Goodwood Revival is one of the top events in the world that’s for sure, but my ambition was to go to the Isle of Man TT. I was delighted when I was invited to go to the first Classic TT – it’s definitely my favourite because that’s where it all started.”
Did you know how to play the ukulele before you started the act?
“No. I was at one of the Stafford shows, and I had taken the ukulele as a prop and I got asked by so many times by people saying: ‘Give us a tune, George’ – and I couldn’t. That’s when I thought if I’m going to do this, I’m going to do this properly, and I’m at least going to learn half-a-dozen Formby songs.” What is your favourite George Formby film?
“I like watching George Formby and without a doubt No Limit is my favourite film. A romantic comedy that is a proper family film that everyone can enjoy.” How long do you think you’ll continue your Formby tribute?
“The first time I dressed as George Formby was in 1988 for a fancy-dress party and I’ll keep doing it for as long as I enjoy it. I get an immense amount of pleasure from doing it, I’ve met a lot of people and made a lot of friends. As long as people want me to do it and I am enjoying it, I’ll carry on.”