A busking event will be held next month in honour of St Albans’ legendary accordion man.
For more than 35 years, 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.
Mr Delaney, known for his quirky outfits and cheerful disposition, passed away at the end of last month.
He was so renowned in the district he inspired his own fanpage on Facebook with over 200 members, ‘The Accordion Man of St Albans Appreciation Society.’
Members of the page will hold a busking day to raise funds for a statue or plaque in Mr Delaney’s honour after an online petition was set up by Miriam Skelton, urging the district council to create a memorial stone.
Melanie Wall is organising the busking event on July 4 and has gained permission for a street collection to raise funds for the plaque.
Mrs Wall, who sings in MacLaren Wall, said: “I thought performing in the city centre and entertaining the young and old seemed a very fitting way to raise funds but to also celebrate Paddy’s life and all that he's given to St Albans folk over the past 35 years.
“My memories of Paddy are of him always being there, every Saturday. I loved seeing the little kids standing there looking up to him.
“He was such a smiley, happy man and would always give a nod as you walked past.”
Mrs Wall said the response has been “heart-warming”. She added: “I envisage that on the day we all wear stripy top and pack the day with wonderful music including nursery rhymes like Paddy would have played.”
So far, local musicians and singers including Justin Starck, Simon Herries, Katie Masson, Laura Dannan, Claire Gilbert, Melanie Mercer, Mac MacLaren and saxophonist, Sarah Whittuck, have agreed to play.
If anyone is interested in playing taking part, they can email: wall.melanie@ymail.com.
Mr Delaney’s family said anyone is welcome to his funeral, which will take place on April 24 at 10.30am at St Mary and St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Boxmoor.
What are your memories of Mr Delaney? Leave them in the comments below or email charlotte.ikonen@london.newsquest.co.uk.
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