Outpouring of love as stroke forces well-known Highland Bang On Boogie Band busker to stop playing music

Heartfelt messages have been pouring in on social media for a well-known busker who had to stop playing after suffering a stroke.

Many took to Facebook to celebrate the work of Mark Hamilton, also known as The Bang On Boogie Band, after Inverness BID posted a request for messages to show support to the artist.

Mr Hamilton, who used to be a regular entertainer on the city's High Street, suffered a major stroke at the beginning of lockdown, which affected the use of his left side after a long time spent in hospital.

The post on Inverness BID Facebook page read: "The Bang on Boogie Band is a big miss in Inverness city centre with Mark entertaining us with his one-man band over many years.

"His life is now very different. He misses his music very much and we miss him on the High Street.

"If you have any memories of Mark or messages for him we would love to share them with him. Also any videos or photos would be really appreciated as he would love to see them."

Many responded to the call by leaving a heartfelt message and wishing him well.

Sheila Johnston said: "My late husband and I both loved Mark’s version of Po Kare Kare Ana, the NZ Māori love song. It was so haunting, like you could see the notes floating down High Street. Mark is a huge miss."

Graeme Gair said: "Legit local legend in my eyes. I recall sitting listening to him, in my teen years, back in the '80s. I think of him and hot summer days, chilling on the High Street.

"Inverness just will not be the same without him. I'm so glad he is getting recognition via this post. Take it easy Mark."

Sharon Clarke said: "So very sorry to be reading this Mark is a brilliant street entertainer and was a joy to listen to. Please pass on my most sincere best wishes and hope he keeps making steady progress in his rehabilitation, music is his life and I’m sure he misses it greatly just as much as we miss him."

Jacquie Urquhart said: "My son was only asking me the other day about him. He loved watching and listening to him when he was a bit younger he used to dance to the music when we were about. Sending get well wishes to him."

Mark's sister-in-law Karen Bentley said: "Mark is truly overwhelmed by all these lovely messages from the good folk of Inverness and surrounding area who have enjoyed his music over the years."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.