Fan report by Mark Giles.

The Performing Rights Society of Music unveiled at plaque at the Northwood Hills Hotel (now the Namaste Lounge) on May 29, 2010. I was one of the lucky group of around 20 Elton fans that were invited to the "invitation only" ceremony and reception.

The first thing that struck me when I arrived was that whilst the outside of the building probably hasn't changed much since Elton played there, the inside certainly has, as it is now a restaurant that specialises in curries.

Amongst those attending was the landlord of the Northwood Hills at the time that Elton played there, George Hills, and his son Andy, who was once Elton's personal assistant. At around 11.30 am we were taken outside and in pouring rain listened to speeches by the Mayor of Hillingdon and the PRS representative Simon Darlow (who has written and co-written songs for Shirley Bassey, Cliff Richard, Wham & Elkie Brooks plus over 70 television theme tunes and scores). Simon spoke about the many highlights of Elton's career.

Then Simon pulled the chord to unveill the plaque to much applause. It said "Sir Elton John first gigged here 1962". After a short photo "session" we were led back inside for the reception where we were teated to a lovely curry buffet and drinks.

It was to be a very busy day as the Lunch Around the World followed the reception and then we had to get to Vicarage Road for the climax of the day - Elton John in concert!

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