AN APPRECIATION society has put together a tribute for one of the UK’s finest pianist and organists.

The Appreciation Society for John Mann, which started in 1981, has raised £500 to place a window with John’s name at Worthing Pier to recognise the immense contributions he has made to the county’s music scene.

The window was unveiled in a ceremony took place last week.

John, 78, who is based in Brighton, was delighted. He said: “I want to thank everyone in the appreciation society for putting this together.

“I feel very honoured to have my name on the beautiful windows at Worthing Pier.

“I also want to thank Sarah Bryant, the secretary of the society, for putting this together.

“At first I mentioned I would make a donation myself but they insisted on doing a fundraising. It didn’t take long to raise £500.

“It’s just very lovely to have a tribute. I have played summer shows in Worthing and Eastbourne for more than 30 years.

“It’s nice to know I have contributed a lot to the towns and I’m very pleased that I have continued to have delighted audiences.

“I had my last summer show in Eastbourne Winter Garden two years ago because the owners are renovating the area.

“However the manager said I would be welcome back to do a performance after the refurbishment is complete.”

John’s supporters are not only limited to the UK – he has fans in France, The Netherlands, Germany and Canada.

As music is the priority in John’s life, he has no plans to retire just yet.

He started playing the piano when he was seven.

His parents were quick to recognise his interest and bought him a piano.

When he was a teenager, John, like many boys of his age, just wanted to go out and play.

His teacher had to go out to find him and ask him why he skipped his lessons.

The talented pianist went on to pass his Royal School of Music examinations and participated in many musical festivals in Brighton.

He said: “If you love something, and if you can still do it, you shouldn’t quit.

“This has kept me motivated. Don’t let age define you.”