A violinist has returned from exile three years after he downed his bow in Kingston, fed up of being told he was too loud, writes Maria Anthony.

Classically-trained Phillip Morgan left the Apple Market as a busker in September 2008, despite a petition from traders for him to stay.

He claimed he had even received death threats over his playing.

But after missing the train to Guildford last week, the former head of music at Surbiton Girls School tested the waters in Kingston’s marketplace with his electric Yamaha.

He said: "I think when people generally say positive things it means an awful lot to an artist, which is one of the main reasons I do this. You have to satisfy everybody’s needs. I get money from it.

"I’m happy that I’m providing happiness for them and relieving the stress of shopping".

Three years ago Mr Morgan signed off saying: "It is time to move on since I cannot play in an atmosphere of clandestine complaints and abuse from some on an almost daily basis."

But this time the Hinchley Wood resident was more hopeful saying: "I believe music breaks down barriers".