A St Albans legend who spent 35 years treating market shoppers to tunes on his accordion has passed away.
John ‘Paddy’ Delaney was a regular fixture outside W H Smith on the High Street where he played everything from old classics to nursery rhymes, as well as special requests from his audiences.
He was so renowned in the area he even inspired his own fanpage on Facebook with over 200 members, ‘The Accordion Man of St Albans Appreciation Society.’
Members of the page are now making plans to hold a ‘busking day’ to raise funds for a statue or plaque in Mr Delaney’s honour.
Known for his quirky outfits and cheerful disposition, he also worked as a jazz pianist and taught children with learning difficulties.
Mr Delaney, who was born in Wales, died at the end of March aged 86 at the Hospice of St Francis.
Zoe Megins-Davies tweeted: “Honestly devastated by the passing of John ‘Paddy’ Delaney, such an incredible man who brought music to many.”
Tas Rahman tweeted: “So sad. RIP to John 'Paddy' Delaney. Town on the weekend won't be the same.”
Mr Delaney’s granddaughter, Becks Thompson, will be running the Tough Guy Half Marathon later this month to raise money for the hospice to show the family’s appreciation for the care he received.
She said on her JustGiving page: “Despite only a short stay, the care and compassion he received there, and the support that we have all experienced as a family since, has been incredible.
"The Hospice of St Francis managed to make an awful situation that little bit more bearable.”
An online petition has been started today urging the district council to create a memorial stone for Mr Delaney.
The petition says: "A memorial in his spot between Whsmith an Champneys, would be a fitting tribute for all he gave to the St Albans community, his family and all the people of St Albans that will miss his much loved presence in the hub of our community."
Mr Delaney’s funeral will be held at 10:30am on April 24 at St Mary and St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Boxmoor. All are welcome.
Some reaction from Twitter:
St Albans Legend 'accordion man' John Paddy Delaney dies at 86. Thank you for the music & making St Albans smile. RIP pic.twitter.com/Pzj1nMisaH
— Lisa Bates (@stalbanschamber) April 2, 2015
St Albans Legend 'accordion man' John Paddy Delaney dies at 86 RIP pic.twitter.com/ahjcq0mLxu” so sad he brightened many a St. Albans market day
— Luke Tucker Harrison (@luketharrison) April 2, 2015
RIP John "Paddy" Delaney, a true legend of St Albans. One of many children's first exposure to live music
— Two Beats Apart (@TwoBeatsApart) April 2, 2015
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