A STOLEN accordion has been recovered after the item turned up in an online auction.

Richard Adey was busking in Evesham when his Scandalli accordion, along with a trolley, a speaker and its case, was taken from outside T-Mobile in Bridge Street on Friday, July 9.

Despite an immediate search of the area, the offer of a reward and widespread publicity, there was no trace of the distinctive accordion which had been made to Mr Adey’s specifications.

But last week, an eagle-eyed member of the public spotted the item for sale on a popular auction website and alerted police.

The instrument was recovered on Thursday from Skintone tattoo shop in Pershore where it had been left as part payment for an unfinished tattoo.

Mr Adey told the Journal he was overjoyed at the recovery and hoped to be reunited with his prized possession later this week.

He thanked police for their help and the people of Evesham for the messages of support he received, including the offer of an accordion from an anonymous townsperson.

The renowned musician hopes to busk in the town in the run-up to Christmas or the New Year, when he can personally thank people for their support.

Police are now trying to trace the man who left the instrument behind under a false name.

He is described as white, aged between 25 and 35, thin, taller than 6ft and has a local accent.

His incomplete tattoo features two wolves, a larger one on the upper arm and a smaller one going down the arm to just below the elbow.

Anyone who believes they can help identify the man should call police on 03003 333000, quoting 204S/090710. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.