Guitarist fears for his musical future following theft of equipment

Guitarist Johnny Ram fears the theft of his musical equipment in Bognor Regis will affect his playing forever.

Johnny doubts if he will be able to afford to replace all the 1,500 worth of items stolen in the break-in.

He is able to continue to perform only because two friends, Dave Dakota and Bruce Logan, have lent him spare guitars.

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"I don't see myself being able to get the money together to get all that equipment back," said Johnny. "The money I'm paid for my gigs is only enough to pay for my petrol and other costs.

"We've got a thriving music scene in Bognor. Everyone in it is shocked and hurt by what has happened to me. No-one would want this to happen to them."

His friends at the Cheers bar on the seafront raised 180 at an impromptu collection to help towards buying a new guitar.

The loss happened after Johnny left his equipment at The White Horse pub on Chichester Road after a rehearsal on March 4. He had followed the same routine many times without any problems.

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But he returned to the pub at 8pm on March 6 to find the equipment had gone. Those involved with the pub apologised profusely for the loss and accepted Johnny had to report the incident to police.

His stolen equipment was a Hohner Steinburger GT2 guitar, a Peavey 65W Studio Pro amplifier and the following sound effects items '“ Zoom Multi FX, Morley wah wah pedal, Boss Graphic EQ7 Bands and Boss Digital Delay Pedal.

Johnny, 55, said the loss of the guitar had special significance for him. It was personalised with his name in big white letters under the clear varnish. The strap was made from a leather belt of a former girlfriend who died of cancer.

He began performing in Bognor in 1966 and combines playing with four bands '“ such as Sounditions and Soul Intentions '“ most weeks, with caring for his mum in Gordon Avenue.

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He has promised a free gig for anyone with information which leads to the return of his stolen equipment.

He can be contacted on 07825 131893.

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