I’m sad to report the passing of this very talented man at the age of 86. Some readers will recall that the cover of the April/May 2017 featured a trad jazz band. Syd is the one with the banjo. This photo was the subject of some ridicule on Twitter but my purpose in using it was to celebrate live music of all types being played in pubs. Over the years Syd made a huge and respected contribution to that. I got to know him through the appearances of ‘Syd and his Jazzers’ in my local, the Sultan in South Wimbledon, where the photo was taken. Syd enjoyed good beer, also frequenting the By The Horns brewery tap nearby.

As much as he enjoyed it, jazz was Syd’s second love. He was a very talented artist and skilled restorer. Born in South Chingford, he studied at Walthamstow Art School and then the Royal Academy School where he won several medals and landscape awards. He also exhibited at both the Royal Academy and the Royal Portrait Society. I am proud to say that I own several of Syd’s paintings of local scenes.
Happily the other members of the Jazzers hope to continue their sessions at the Sultan.
Tony Hedger