Good news, Rob. My only trip to see The Teardrop Explodes in March 1982 in Leicester was the perfect hitching experience. Twenty five miles. One car journey all the way there and even dropped off outside the venue and then two coming home. Was home just after midnight. Ps. They were great.
I've only had bootleg evidence (and the April OGWT special) but I've always said that winter / spring 82 was their live peak, huge catalogue to pick from, great new songs and a band capable of improvising around Cope's flights of fancy. I envy you seeing them!
It was this one www.setlist.fm/setlist/the-...
I've got a bootleg of the night before in Southport, it's a cracker!