Sir Rod Stewart has been honoured with a new plaque at the unexpected birthplace of his career ahead of his Glastonbury legends slot.
The 80-year-old rock star was first discovered when he began singing the blues while waiting for the train at Twickenham station in 1964 after going to see the blues singer Long John Baldry at Eel Pie Island.
He was overheard by Baldry, who was also waiting for his train, and offered a gig on the spot, marking the start of his 61-year career.
A new plaque has now been unveiled at Twickenham station by South Western Railway to mark the unexpected start of Sir Rod’s career, which also nods to the singer’s love of trains.
Sir Rod’s passion famously extends to trains, having spent decades constructing an intricate model railway set.
Adam Scott, a tour guide who offers music history tours across London explained the plaque will be added to his routes.
He said: “It’s so fitting that the railway station – the first port-of-call for most visitors to Twickenham – should have this plaque.
“It acts as a harmonica fanfare for a most historical and still vibrant music neighbourhood.
“I lead music history tours all over London. The most common question I am asked? “Why isn’t there a plaque here?” Well at Twickenham Station, there is now.”
Manoj Bhardwaj, Station Manager at Twickenham Station, added: “We’re so excited to pay tribute to Sir Rod Stewart here at Twickenham Station where his musical journey began.
“The sign celebrates the connection between the railway and one of Britain’s most iconic artists, and we hope it brings smiles to fans and South Western Railway customers coming through the railway station.”
