Jim Reavey - World Champion

Jarrow Central School can boast many pupils who have made their mark on society in differing ways; Peers of the Realm, Members of Parliament, Footballers, International Achievers and Company Presidents to mention but some of the illustrious heights reached.

            Until recently I hadn't realised the school also produced a World Champion.

            Because of my musical background I'd heard of Jim Reavey and knew of his fame as an outstanding accordionist but, until Walter Wears told me, I didn't know he'd attended JCS.

            Walter recalled hearing Jim playing the accordion at school even though the instrument probably weighed more than he did!  Even then, at a tender age, he showed promise although few anticipated just how good he would become.

            He was at The School when Major Dawson was headmaster and left in the mid 1930's.  During The War he served in Bomber Command and upon demob played Summer Seasons in Scarborough for a couple of years followed by appearances throughout the British Isles.  His prowess increased and in the early sixties he was acknowledged as The World Champion in Copenhagen.  He also won other prestigious titles in Italy such as the World Oscar at Pavia and Le Tournoi European de L'Accordion in  Como.  For an Englishman to win an accordion playing championship in Italy takes an extra special talent and Jim certainly had that.  His success led to international appearances with symphony orchestras on stage, television and radio, in  Canada, Italy, Sweden, France, Kenya and Saudi Arabia; Jim even played in Iraq and The Sudan as well as numerous other countries.

            Married with two daughters, he is now in his 80's; he still lives in Felling where he was born although, these days, he no longer performs in public and why should he?  He's done it all.

Lance Liddle December 2004