A TRIBUTE concert for the late, great Isle of Wight interviewer, John Hannam, is taking place in Shanklin early next year.

Organised by the John's son, Sean, the event is scheduled for February 6 at Shanklin Theatre.

As a nod to the showbiz TV series, Sunday Night at the London Palladium, the concert is called Sunday Night at Shanklin Theatre – A Tribute To John Hannam.

"In true entertainment tradition, the show must go on," said Sean.

"I'm staging a charity concert in honour of my dad on the Isle of Wight, where he was born and bred and spent his life.

"Dad loved the Island. He made a name for himself there, and was never lured away by the bright lights of Fleet Street, or national radio, even though his great reputation was known all over the UK and across the world.

"During his amazing life ­— almost 50 years of it spent interviewing stars of stage and screen, as well as local people ­— he decided to stay on the Island, with his family and friends.

"Shanklin Theatre was a venue that my dad was very fond of.

"It’s where we held the wake for his funeral in November, so it’s very fitting that the tribute concert will take place there."

Tributes poured in for entertainment legend, broadcaster and writer, John Hannam, when he died back in September, aged 80.

A long standing friend of the County Press, John was born in East Cowes and became best known for his easy-going interviews with the stars of stage and screen.

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A fresh tribute to the showbiz journalist's extraordinary career and legacy, the line-up of performers for the Shanklin event will include national and local musicians John liked, admired and supported ­— many of whom he interviewed at some stage during his career.

Proceeds from the event will go to the British Heart Foundation and the Wellow Ward, St Mary’s Hospital.

Tickets are available at www.shanklintheatre.com