AT the age of 79 a pensioner has decided it's not too late to rekindle his passion for the saxophone.

As a 20-year-old, Nevil Lee played the instrument briefly, but three years ago decided to buy a second-hand instrument and pick up where he had left off.

Mr Lee is now working towards his level two music exam and spends his time entertaining pensioners with his music at Timperley Nursing Home, in Mainwood Road.

He said: “I could knock out a tune as soon as I started playing again and have progressed quite well since then.”

Saira Hall, Nevil's music tutor added: "Nevil is such a pleasure to teach and our ‘working’ relationship has turned into such a deep friendship, I am blessed that he decided to take lessons with me.

"He is conscientious, listens to advice and suggestions and makes the music his own. He is very, musical - something that one can’t teach but simply already has."

Two years ago, Mr Lee lost his wife, Joyce to vascular dementia, he said it gave his great satisfaction seeing the warm response of the residents, many of whom are living with the same disease.

He said: “Giving them pleasure gives me pleasure too."

Not only does Mr Lee play for residents as a whole but also visits the individual residents who are bed-bound.

Estelle Felstead, activities coordinator at Timperley Nursing Home, discovered Mr Lee’s passion for music at Sale Salvation Army Church where they are both members.

She said: “Nevil felt he wanted to share his new found hobby with others, so he volunteered to play to residents at our home.

“What joy he brings to our residents. On his last visit he inspired George Nuttall to get out his harmonica. They played alongside each other. This ignited a greater love of singing from others in the group.

“Nevil made a big impact on our residents and we have now booked him in for monthly visits. In July, his tutor, Saira Hall will also be entertaining our residents.

“Variety is the spice of life at Timperley. Each day we endeavour to entertain our residents with different activities collectively and independently.”