Free Paul Weller tickets for 'oldest Mod in town' after retirement

Paul Proudfoot was given the tickets after we reported how his colleagues got him a 1965 Lambretta scooter when he retired after 50 years

The treats just keep on coming for “oldest mod in town” Paul Proudfoot.

The 65-year-old from Porthcawl was stunned to be given a 1965 Lambretta scooter - similar to the beloved one he owned as a 17-year-old - as a gift when he retired after 50 years from Bridgend-based construction firm Jehu Group.

And after reading about the former working foreman on Wales Online, event promoters Orchard Entertainment have now offered up a gift of their own - two free tickets to see Paul Weller when he performs in Cardiff for one night only this summer.

The Modfather himself will perform material from his extensive back catalogue spanning his days with The Jam, The Style Council and his own, hugely successful solo career, when he hits Cardiff Castle on Thursday, July 24.

Mr Proudfoot, of Fulmar Road, told the Gazette last week he planned to spend his newfound freedom juggling jobs handed out by wife Mary with a summer spent hitting the open road on his new scooter, holidaying, and attending music concerts.

And after hearing about Orchard’s generous offer, the overwhelmed grandfather-of-five said: “This is just great. I’ve been looking at this concert but haven’t bought tickets yet, so this is just another great surprise and a lovely gesture.”

He also said he’s been stunned by all the interest in his tale.

“It’s been quite strange, all this attention,” he said. “I’ve been to buy the Gazette - four copies - and it did feel a bit odd seeing myself on the front.

“I just want to say thank you very much to Orchard, this has made the retirement even better. It’s just great.”

Orchard Entertainment’s Dave Driscoll said: “We saw Paul’s story on Wales Online, and we just really liked it.

“We are promoting Paul Weller in Cardiff and thought he’d appreciate the tickets.

“We really hope he enjoys the show.”