Music fund set up in memory of Radiohead roadie

The Scott Johnson Bursary for Young Musicians will benefit promising young musicians in Rotherham, where Scott was born and took up the drums, before going on to work with Keane and Radiohead.

Scott’s parents, Ken and Sue, who live in Hickleton, said that they had been inundated with donations in lieu of flowers in memory of the 33-year-old, who died in an accident in Toronto in June when part of the stage fell on him.

Ken told the Advertiser in June of their plans to establish a fund in honour of Scott (pictured), who  took up the viola aged six before developing a passion for the drums and becoming an experienced member of the Rotherham Schools Orchestra.

And this week he and Sue announced the creation of a music bursary fund.

In a message posted on the Radiohead website by drummer Phil Selway, the couple told fans: “It has been heart-warming to receive the kind wishes from you all.

“We have had many requests for donations in place of flowers and have set up an account that will be the Scott Johnson Bursary for Young Musicians.

“This will be managed by his friends locally as a fund primarily in Rotherham Schools.

“It was not our intention to create this nor wish his friends to spend money that none of us can afford in these difficult times.

“We hoped that it would be modest but already some companies and teachers want to offer products and services that will benefit these musicians.

“Frankly we cannot equate to the financial aspects but if it helps anyone to contribute in this way the account is established to ensure that no other fund is created in error.

“It may take a while, but we will keep you informed on how the money is spent in due course.”

Scott was born in Whiston and went to Brinsworth Comprehensive, before starting work at Doncaster’s Electro Music.

He learned about drumming from shop owner Paul Munday, before travelling the world with Longview, The Australian Pink Floyd Show, Keane and Radiohead.

To make a donation, visit www.scottjohnsonbursary.com.