Jim Marshall honoured with plaque unveiling

Celebrating a man most extraordinary: Marshall managing director Jon Ellery with the Mayor of Hanwell and Brian Poole pic: Ally McErlaine

But the story of how Jim Marshall changed the face of music forever actually has its roots in Hanwell, London, where he opened his first music shop, and in 1962 sold his first amp.

It was the early 1960s and Jim’s customers included youngsters Pete Townsend and Richie Blackmore.

Musicians flocked to the man they would one day call The Father of Loud, for equipment and advice.

On Saturday, a plaque was unveiled at the site of that music shop, the day of the first Hanwell Hootie Music Festival.

Singer Brian Poole was on hand to do the honours. His band The Tremeloes were among the very first to make use of Jim’s now legendary talents.

“When I was asked to unveil a plaque commemorating the life and achievements of my good friend, I was proud and pleased to do it,” Brian told GO! online.

“On the day I went and stood outside for the first time since we were among his very first customers in the early 60s. Just along the road is where Amp No1 was conceived and built,” he recalled.

A large crowd assembled for the unveiling, but things didn’t quite go according to plan: “Just as I was telling a story about Jim in his later years the plaque suddenly unveiled itself causing much surprise and a little chuckle...it was a great day and as usual Jim Marshall OBE was in control!” he added.