HE was the legendary jazzman whose to spend his twilight years in Gosport.

But the weather and pigeons had taken their toll on the town's memorial to master trumpet player Nat Gonella.

After dozens of protests from his fans, council bosses decided enough was enough and vowed to clean up the monument to his musical achievements.

And now residents and visitors will be able to remind themselves of his glittering career because the information board has been returned to its pride of place in Nat Gonella Square.

The board was originally unveiled by the great man himself in 1994 but had become more than a little dog-eared prompting council officials to order the facelift.

In an illustrious career, London-born Gonella played with many top band leaders including Lew Stone and Billy Cotton.

He retired to Gosport in 1977 - but hit the headlines again 20 years later when one of his solos was sampled in the number hit Your Woman by White Town.

He is also commemorated by a steel sculpture of a trumpet and some musical notes representing his hit song Georgia.

Supporters of the artist, who died aged 90 in August 1998, said the memory of the jazz icon should not be forgotten.

Tony Wing, of Gosport Jazz Club, where Nat was a member, said: "It is brilliant to see the tribute board unveiled again and updated.

"He was a one-off, a pop star of his time and his legacy still lives on."

Gosport mayor Councillor Dennis Wright said: "Since the board was unveiled by Nat he has sadly passed away.

"It seemed appropriate that we should take the opportunity, while the board was out of action for cleaning to bring it back up to date by including details of his death."

A tribute night to Nat Gonella is being organised for April next year when top name jazz bands will perform in his honour to raise money for a fund that helps local families with children in need.

More information about the event is available from Tony Wing on 023 9252 2834.