AS NORTHWICH braces itself for its first ever Pina Colada festival (and getting caught in the rain) the man who inspired the event has sent a personal message to his hometown.

Rupert Holmes, who wrote and sang the number one hit "Escape (The Pina Colada Song)" was born in the town and lived on Hemming Street for the first six years of his life.

When Tom Barrow discovered that little known fact, it spawned an idea and as they say, the rest is history, and today the town turns totally tropical in homage to the man and THAT drink.

On the eve of the event, Mr Holmes took time out to send a special message to the people of his hometown and said how he wishes he could be here in person.

He said: "I'm thrilled for the unexpected news that the first Northwich Pina Colada Day is not only happening, but happening tomorrow.

"I'd give anything if I could be there to help kick it off with a chorus of my song from which there is no escape, meaning "Escape (aka The Pina Colada Song)."

"My support goes out not only to all those honouring Her Majesty's Royal Naval service by drinking twice their legal daily allotment of a tot of rum, but (seriously and especially) to all the Northwich pubs, restaurants and shops doubly stricken this past year by local floods and a tidal wave called Covid.

"My own plans to be in the country of my birth have been struck down twice in two years.

"The UK tour of my musical Curtains starring Jason Manford was abruptly halted due to the pandemic, after seven splendid months which included Manchester and London, just prior to its reaching Blackpool, where I had hoped to join up with the cast.

"And only a few months ago I couldn't visit Sir Trevor Nunn's workshop of our musical Warhol owing to the quarantine for overseas visitors.

"My hope is that I can join you next year for the second Northwich Pina Colada Festival.

"Perhaps we could have a fund-raising raffle - 2nd prize I sing "The Pina Colada Song" outside the winner's home - 1st prize, I don't!

"My thoughts are with Hemming Street where I was born, the I.C.I. canteen where my grandmother was head cook, Castle, Greenbank, Hartford, Knutsford Hospital, the outdoor fish market, and the swing bridge whose foundation pillars were laid by my diver grandfather Francis Pynn, with every splash of rum, pineapple juice and coconut cream that hits a blender on this much-needed festive day and night.

"My hope is to see you in person same time next year.

"Meanwhile, please have a Pina Colada for me - have two - but karaoke responsibly!

"Proud to be a Northwich lad."