A WELL-KNOWN Newport busker and long-serving member of Ventnor Comic Jazz Band has died.

William Clarkson died on Christmas Day at the age of 72.

He was a familiar face, often busking outside Ventnor Co-op and in the alleyway in Newport between South Street and Pyle Street. Flowers have been left at his Newport spot, in tribute.

William was an "up-shuter" being from Upper Ventnor and went to school in the town.

Isle of Wight County Press:

His parents owned the shop and bakery on the corner of Newport Road and York Road.

William was known for being quietly spoken and a little shy, but he was hard working, intelligent, and became head boy at Ventnor Secondary School.

He became a teacher but had many hobbies, including playing for Ventnor Comic Jazz Band, swimming in the sea in Ventnor all year round, playing rings and darts, and supporting Southampton Football Club.

He was multi-talented musically, playing guitar, brass instruments, and piano.

A funeral service will be held at 1pm on Tuesday, February 20 at St Catherine's Church, Ventnor.

The jazz band will play around the town and into the church for the service.

Thanks to Dave Russell for the tribute