390 People attended the recent funeral of George Savva (72) at the
Priory Church of St. Mary’s in Usk, South Wales. George and his wife Pam
were one of the UK’s best known Cabaret Club entrepreneurs.
George was initially head hunted by Ladbrokes as the Head Waiter at
C’esars Palace, Luton, but was soon promoted to become the Manager. He later joined Blazer’s at Windsor as the General Manager. A 1200 seater
venue that soon became the place to play for all the UK’s major
entertainers and attractions. These included Cliff Richard, The Shadows,
Shirley Bassey, and the venue also staged a number of Royal charity
fundraising events.
George then moved to what was known as The Stardust Club in Usk –
subsequently renamed ‘Savvas’ which quickly became one of the UK’s major
cabaret venues. Attractions such as Cliff played the venue and George
and Pam generated substantial income for other related businesses in the
area.
George, who had Greek ancestry, then retired to Cyprus where he wrote
his book ‘For Whom the Stars Come out at Night’ – he was then persuaded
by his Son in Law, David Lewis, to come back to Wales to run the Cwrt
Bleddyn Hotel in Usk, and when this was sold, to run the Maes Manor
Hotel in Blackwood.
George was a legendary figure in the cabaret club era – a larger than
life character respected and liked by artists and audiences alike – he
made every guest at whatever level feel special and valued – a great gift.
The Church service was conducted by The Rev. Gray – Iris Williams flew
in specially from New York to reprise ‘He Was Beautiful’, and Bryn Yemm,
now based in Florida, read a very moving poem by his Daughter, Jayne.
George leaves a devoted wife, Pam, and children Jayne, George, Andrew
and James, and Four Grandchildren and Seven Great Grandchildren.
A number of entertainers and agents attended the funeral including his
two main entertainment bookers, Jimmy Smith and John Mills.
John Mills
JMA Productions Ltd
