Start Me Up: Rolling Stones legend Ronnie Wood opens studio in Canning Town for budding musicians

The rock legend chatted with youngsters while touring the new Links Studio - which is based at the Community Links centre in Barking Road - on Tuesday, July 3.

Ronnie Wood with wife Sally and young musicians. (Image: 2021Dave J Hogan)

He told the Recorder: "It means so much to help these young kids and to see the expression on their faces when they get a bit of encouragement. I love to help them out.

"I remember when I was a little kid having the privilege of hanging out with my elder brothers. They all played a range of instruments. They helped me - put my fingers on the fretboard of the guitar.

"And that's a bit like giving [youngsters here] a helping hand."

On returning to Newham, Ronnie said: "I enjoy it every time."

Ronnie and Sally arrive to open the music studios at Community Links in Canning Town. (Image: 2021Dave J Hogan)

Joined by wife Sally, Ronnie posed for photographs in front of the band's famous tongue and lips logo outside the studio.

Guests heard how Ronnie hot-footed it to Canning Town from one studio - where he was jamming with fellow rock star Sir Rod Stewart - to be at the launch of another.

During his visit, the 74-year-old superstar presented youngsters with a poster and set list from the Stones' gig at London Stadium on May 25, 2018.

Ronnie Wood presents a set list from a London Stadium show which raised funds for the project. (Image: 2021Dave J Hogan)

While at the concert, Mick Jagger called out: "Anyone here from Canning Town?" To which the crowd replied with a resounding, "Yes".

Proceeds from the gig went towards the purpose-built studio, which will host workshops as well as courses leading to qualifications in music technology and sound engineering.

At the launch, Ronnie listened to tracks created by young people from Newham where more than half of children are deemed to be in poverty, according to Trust for London.

Ronnie Wood views a recording studio during a tour on Tuesday (August 3). (Image: 2021Dave J Hogan)

The musician said: "I started with nothing so I can really appreciate what these young stars are going through.

"They are going to be duly inspired, I hope, by the building and all the things that the studio has to offer and the opportunities they can get in the arts."

Community Links director, Chi Kavindele, said the studio will give 'vulnerable' youngsters an opportunity to get excited about the future again. (Image: 2021Dave J Hogan)

Chi Kavindele, director of Community Links, said the studio will give "vulnerable" youngsters an opportunity to get excited about the future again.

"Young people have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, from disruption to school life to curtailed employment.

"We want this to be a gateway for future artists, producers, and engineers."

Ronnie and Sally Wood pose beside Rolling Stones artwork at the opening of the music studios at Community Links in Canning Town. (Image: 2021Dave J Hogan)

Studio manager, Joelle Reefer, said: "I've been blown away by what we've got to offer."