Guitar hero

BACK for one night only: John Loydon

A TALENTED blues musician who has been unable to perform for 12 years due to illness is taking to the stage for one last time.

John Loydon of Heyside, Royton, suffers from neuromyelitis optica, which affects the nervous system, optic nerves and spinal cord. and can lead to paralysis or sight loss.

John (67) said: “The condition has affected every aspect of my life, not just music. I only have around a tenth of the grip I’m supposed to have in my hand, which makes playing guitar incredibly difficult. I try to play as best as I can with a few fingers, but it isn’t the same.”

The retired Royton and Crompton school English teacher is one of only two people in Britain with similar problems.

The condition forced the former guitar player to retire from playing in 2003. He will come back to the stage for one night to raising money for charity NMO Spectrum-UK, a recently formed group dedicated to those with the condition.

John was diagnosed with progressive NMO five years ago, but had suffered symptoms for 10 years at that point. Despite struggling to play, he is keen to get back up on stage.

The concert is at the Granby Arms in Uppermill on Saturday and features live music and a DJ.

John, who gigged regularly around Oldham with his bands Reflex and Go to the Hog, added: “I am looking forward to performing again, though I may need a chair.

“I’m hoping to raise as much money as possible and I’ve set a target of £500.”

The event starts at 5pm and admission is free, but donations will be encouraged. Donate to John’s cause at www.justgiving.com/john-loydon.