Never too old to learn new tricks

At the ripe old age of 80 Tom Beattie decided it was time for a new hobby.

Having moved to a new house in Magheralin, Tom reckoned a new piano would be the perfect addition to his home.

He’s only had the instrument a few weeks and has elected to teach himself the finer points of the piano.

Tom used to live with his brother in the family home on the outskirts of Moira, but just recently he moved to a bungalow in Magheralin on his own.

He said: “I’ve always had a liking for music.

“There was a piano in the house when I was growing up, but it was more for decoration.

“It wasn’t in really good order and it didn’t get played very much. This is the first piano I’ve owned.”

Tom continued: “There’s a lovely tone off it.

“That’s what attracted me to it when I went down to see the man.”

Tom bought the piano from AA Music in Upper Ballinderry run by Alex and Anna Murphy.

Alex commented: “Tom is a real character and since selling him the piano I’ve stayed in touch to find out how he’s getting on. I think his story is inspirational.”

Tom added: “I’ve no voice on me, I just like to play.

“You’re never too old to start. It lifts the heart.

“I just play for my own pleasure.

“I’ve no concerts planned,” he joked.

“I didn’t get much time in years gone by to do anything like this, now I’ve more time.

“I did a bit of clock repair in my time. I still fix clocks for my own enjoyment.

“When I first got the piano a lady came down and played ‘The Town I Loved So Well’. I’d like to be able to do that.”