Fans of Elton came to Northwood Hills on May 29, 2010 to see a plaque unveiled on the site of his first public performance 48 years ago.

The plaque on by the door of the Namaste Lounge bar and restaurant in Joel Road, formerly The Northwood Hills pub, was unvelied by Simon Darlow of the Performing Rights Society in a ceremony attended by Mayor of Hillingdon David Yarrrow. Mr Darlow said: "Everyone has to start somewhere. Obviously only a tiny percentage of performers will become as big as Sir Elton has, but many more can make a humble living. It is important that pubs and other small venues continue to offer the stars of tomorrow a chance."

George Hill, who owned the pub at the time and first engaged the future star at the age of 15, said: "It wasn't long after I first came here. He lived just round the corner. He came to me and asked for a job playing the piano. I didn't think he was much good to be honest. But my wife disagreed, and she told me to give him a break. She was right and I was wrong, as usual.

"He stayed playing here for three years. He played old time songs like 'Knees Up Mother Brown.' I paid him 30 bob a night - that's £1.50 now, and I've still got the piano in my garage."

Councillor Yarrow said: "It's an honour to be here. Sir Elton is an icon of the music business, and he first performed here in the Borough of Hillingdon. That is one of the major accomplishments of the borough."

Laura Croker, editor of eltonjohn.com, said: "I am quite sure Elton remembers playing here very well. He has a prodigous memory."

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