Looking around an "antique emporium" recently, I came across an old His Master's Voice horn gramophone.

As it was not priced excessively and I had always hoped to own one, I decided to buy it.

Trying it out in the shop, I realised it would be impossible to play it at home because it is loud and volume controls had not been invented in those far-off days.

It occurred to me it would be a great attraction at a garden party or similar fund-raising event, perhaps a good little fund-raiser itself, as a small charge could be made for each tune played. I have lots of old 78s just waiting to be played.

Let's get together and make music to help some good causes. I would be very happy to attend any suitable events with the gramophone during the summer months.

-Michael Parker, Lewes Road, Brighton, Tel 01273 885268