“Mystery” charity shop pianist unmasked as clubland veteran Roy Coggon

A PIANIST who raised a smile when he tinkled the ivories in a charity shop has been revealed as a well-known drummer on the club circuit.

Roy Coggon (77) was filmed knocking out a rendition of Danny Boy by staff in the Rotherham Hospice shop in Maltby, whose video was shared on social media and the Advertiser Facebook page.

Readers got in touch to identify Roy as a musician best known for bashing out a beat at Maltby’s Progressive Club, Brooklands Club and Catholic Club over the years.

He was back in action again this week, joining fellow musicians for the weekly open mic night at the Cavalier in Ravenfield on Tuesday.

“I was quite amused when I found out I’d been in the Advertiser,” said Roy, of Blyth Road.

“I’ve always been a drummer but I can also play a few pieces on the piano. I wouldn’t say I’m a proper pianist though because I play by ear and I don’t read music.”

Roy said he had provided the backing for many talented musicians over the years, most notably organist Geoff Stephenson.

Roy’s wife Marie (53) said his hospice shop performance was not a one-off: “If there’s a piano, he will play it.

“We’ve been together 28 years and I first saw him playing drums in the Catholic Club.”

A spokeswoman for the Rotherham Hospice shop said staff had been “wonderfully surprised” when the “anonymous musician” asked if he could play a tune on the piano.

After we shared the video and pictured Roy in the paper, readers flocked to identify him.

Jean Whinfrey said Roy was well known on the club circuits playing drums, adding: “He played for my late hubby, who had the stage name Roy Dean, many times.”

Reader Zoe Fisher said: “Lovely gent. Hope the piano gets sold.

“He brought a smile to all who watched this video.”

Andrew Woodcock added: “Get him on Britain’s Got Talent. It’s never too late for a good musician.”