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QAI have one signed LP and five signed singles from Del Shannon. These are Cry Myself to Sleep, Hats Off to Larry, Hey Little Girl, Jody and So Long Baby. How much would these be worth? Ellis Hancock via email Del’s star wasn’t as bright as some but his signature would still fetch €50 to €100. The American had a No1 hit with Runaway in 1961. Sadly his later life was troubled and he committed suicide in 1990. The Traveling Wilburys did a cover of Runaway in tribute to him. My mother has given me a drinks cabinet called a Tantalus, which is at least 100 years old. It is a wood and brass box that holds three glass decanters but has a clever lock to prevent it being opened. Can you tell me more about it? Michael Wooton, Calne, Wilts Your Tantalus dates back to the Downton Abbey era of masters and servants. Tantalus was a king in Greek mythology who was punished by being put near fruit and water just out of his reach – giving us the word “tantalising”. If yours is in good condition it is worth about €250, or €300 with a silver handle. Del Shannon
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