After 50 long years, a trumpeter and flugelhorn player is making his long-awaited return to Hornchurch Jazz Club.

John Shillito, 75, will be performing with his band, Select Six, at Hornchurch Conservative Club, North Street, on May 5 after last performing for them in the 1960s at Elm Park Hotel.

John said the thriving club was one of the best: “Things have changed a lot since those days; this is my first visit to the current club, but it wouldn’t surprise me to meet up with some folks who used to be around in the Elm Park days.”

John first became interested in jazz during his school days in Sheffield.

After purchasing his first trumpet for £24, John set off for London and became heavily involved in the jazz scene of the 1950s and 1960s.

He now lives in Devon.

“It’s very humbling to think that the music I play can make so many people happy. That’s a pretty good reason for not stopping.”

Playing jazz has allowed John to travel all over the world, including Russia, USA and most of Europe. “I’m happy to be wherever jazz is. That’s why I am coming to Hornchurch.”

Tickets are £5 for members and £6 for non-members from 0791 355 8616.