Black Sabbath enjoyed Workington and were appreciated

Not many individuals can claim to have had the incredible opportunity of sharing the stage with their musical idol and singing in front of a massive crowd. Nevertheless, for a devoted fan of Ozzy Osbourne, this became a reality. Des Rumney, a resident of Cumbria, has cherished this unforgettable experience for decades as he mourns the passing of the iconic Prince of Darkness.

Mr. Rumney, now 60 years old, has been enamored with Ozzy and his band, Black Sabbath, for nearly 50 years, attending a staggering 90 concerts. Given his hometown of Workington’s unique connection to Black Sabbath, it is no wonder that his deep love for the band runs so strong.

“Ozzy always had a presence in Cumbria,” Mr. Rumney remarked. “Black Sabbath and Workington are practically synonymous. Those in Workington’s rock music scene are well aware of the rich history that ties Black Sabbath to our town, and many still fondly recall it.”

In commemoration of this historic tie between Black Sabbath and the town of Workington, Mr. Rumney and his band organized a fundraising effort that culminated in the unveiling of a plaque at the Carnegie Theatre. The plaque stands as a testament to the pivotal role that Workington played in Black Sabbath’s legacy.

The people of Workington bore witness to a momentous occasion on August 26, 1969, when the band Earth, featuring Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, Geezer Butler, and Ozzy Osbourne, performed at the Banklands Youth Club. Following a tour across Cumbria that took them through Silloth, Carlisle, Low Hesket, and Wigton, the band settled on the name Black Sabbath, much to the delight of the enthralled crowd that gathered at Banklands.

The evolution of Black Sabbath’s music began with the darker themes explored in their lyrics, particularly evident in the song “Black Sabbath,” inspired by a horror film of the same title. This shift towards a more ominous musical direction was not without its challenges, as revealed by music promoter Andy Park, who recounted a particularly tough night at Low Hesket Village Hall.

Despite some missteps along the way, Black Sabbath’s journey through Cumbria was met with resounding success in venues across Carlisle and Workington. Mr. Rumney fondly recalled the band’s performance at Workington Technical College in 1970, coinciding with the release of their debut album “Black Sabbath.”

In his encounters with Ozzy Osbourne, Mr. Rumney emphasized the rock star’s down-to-earth personality and genuine connection with his fans. Ozzy’s willingness to invite fans on stage during his shows was a testament to his appreciation for the dedicated support from his audience.

The heartfelt tribute that Mr. Rumney and his bandmates paid to Black Sabbath’s transformative moment in Workington, immortalized by the unveiling of a plaque at the Carnegie Theatre, serves as a lasting reminder of the band’s deep connection to the region. The enduring bond between Black Sabbath and the town of Workington is a testament to the reciprocal love and admiration that existed between them.