Last night Joan Armatrading brought her final World tour to the Congress Theatre in Eastbourne. At the age of 65 she has chosen to begin to retire gracefully from a career of over 30 years as a major touring artists. The opportunity to see some of her treasured photos with her personal commentary as well as listen whilst she sang some of her favoured songs unaccompanied was a real treat in a relatively intimate theatre. That the Congress itself is in need of a good lick of paint and a bit of love and affection, did not detract from the evening unduly. Like many of us present at the gig the building is not in its first flush of youth and unlike the Towner Gallery next door which was built and opened in 2009 it matches the sense of faded glory evident in many parts of Eastbourne. I grew up listening to Joan Armatrading and have watched her many times on TV, but this was the first time I had seen her live. Although I have never been a big fan or even bought a single record, it was thrilling to be at one of her last concerts as a touring musician. To hear from a woman who has challenged apartheid, championed racial and LGBT causes and written and sung some wonderful songs and finally shared her personal stories with us. Many thanks Joan, with great love and affection!