Police seize elderly pianist's instruments after neighbours complain about noise

23 July 2015, 12:00

Classically-trained pensioner had been banned from making excessive noise following a dispute with his neighbours.

A 72-year-old man had all of his musical instruments taken away after neighbours complained he was disturbing them.

Officials from Coventry City Council seized John Hudspith’s keyboard, organ and amplifier, as well as tape players, televisions, a megaphone, two sets of speakers, two VHS video players, a turntable ­– and even an ornamental gong. 

It is claimed that the 72-year-old former hotel manager had breached a noise abatement order banning him from making excessive noise ­– for a third time.

"I mostly play classical music," he said, "but sometimes I'll play a bit of boogie woogie. Never at night though."

It is reported that when police raided Hudspith’s home, he was playing Summer of 69 by Bryan Adams, and Jive Bunny and the Mastermixers. 

The Coventry Telegraph reported that Hudspith retaliated when a noise dispute with his neighbour started because of slamming doors. But he denies the problem had escalated to the point where his items should be seized.

He also says that his house was damaged and he was assaulted during the raid.

The classically-trained pensioner, who used to play concerts, said: "It broke my heart to see them remove my keyboard in that way, carrying it upside down." 

Since Hudspith is threatening to take legal action, Coventry City Council is unable to comment further at this stage.