Cathy

Both Cathy Whims, in her excellent new cookbook "The Italian Summer Kitchen," and New York Times columnist Martha Rose Shulman recommend blanching basil before blending to preserve its vibrant color.

It all began when receptionist and secretary Cathy Redfern answered the phone at Stockport's Strawberry Studios, which were part-owned by the critically acclaimed Mancunian band.

"I immediately said no way," said Cathy, who is now known by her married name of Warren.

Cathy said the band viewed her as their "kid sister".

Godley was whispering the line "Be quiet - big boys don't cry" in the control room when Cathy popped in to deliver a message.