AN award-winning musician will give a concert on Tees-side next month, in a more modulated tempo than when he last appeared.

Thai pianist Chaiporn Pookhaothong saved the day for managers of a group of almshouses when he stepped in to play at less than 48 hours notice.

"Last year we had booked a pianist from Holland," said the concert organiser Peter Sotheran, chairman of the Sir William Turner's Alms-houses at Kirkleatham, near Redcar.

"Unfortunately, she was taken ill on the Wednesday night and was unable to perform for us on the Friday. We were really worried that we might have to cancel our concert.

"After a string of late night phone calls, we tracked down Mr Pookhaothong, who happened to be in London and he agreed to save our bacon.

"On that occasion, Mr Pookhaothong cleared his diary, spent the Thursday rehearsing, caught an early train from Kings Cross on Friday morning and performed at Kirkleatham on the Friday evening.''

Mr Sotheran said the resulting performance was so stunning, the maestro had to be invited back for a return concert.

That will take place at the almshouses on Thursday, January 8, starting at 7.30pm.

Mr Pookhaothong won prizes and awards from the Ian Fleming Trust in 1998 and 1999, and also the Myra Hess award in 1999 for the most outstanding young pianist.

Tickets cost £10 and are available by credit card on (01287) 632225.

Published: 29/12/2003