Mad About the Boys

"Take That" are the biggest boy band since the Beatles. Bursting onto the pop scene in 1992, they attracted millions of fiercely loyal fans, and their recent sell-out comeback tours and massive number one album have proved that they are still hugely popular. This is the story of Claire Blake - the biggest "Take That" fan in the world.In September 1994, Claire went to her first "Take That" concert and, like any fan, was amazed by their talent and showmanship. Unlike most fans, however, Claire became determined to get as close to her idols as possible, and set about meeting and befriending them. Through a combination of sheer determination, ingenuity and remarkable strokes of luck, she has had some incredible experiences over the years - including getting into a recording of Parkinson at the BBC despite not having a ticket, recording with Mark Owen at Abbey Road studios, and helping Robbie Williams through some of his darkest moments.In this unique account of her life with "Take That", Claire reveals: intimate details of the real "Take That"; amusing and amazing stories of her determination to meet them; how she ended up at aftershow parties, in hotel bars with the band and on the guest list for Gary Barlow's solo gigs; her friendships and meetings with band members since "Take That" split in 1996; and, how she and the band were reunited for their 2006 tour.