A MUSICIAN is to play the keyboard while walking for 12 miles to raise money for charity.

David Stanley who runs Southend Mencap’s Music Man Project will start at Benfleet and finish in Leigh.

He will walk and play a keyboard strapped to the back of a mobility scooter supplied by the Essex Mobility Centre. The scooter will be driven by Music Man Project assistant tutor, Jenny Hitchcock.

David, a Leigh town councillor, will also do three pit stops with piano recitals.

In April last year David successfully completed a 24-hour music marathon on the end of Southend Pier and raised £7,500 for the charity. He aims to beat this figure with this year’s fundraising attempt.

David said: “We had so much fun at Southend Pier last year that I couldn’t wait to try something else. Although the attempt on the pier was for longer and in much colder conditions at least I was stationary!”

The challenge will take place on November 22 from 8am to the finish at about 6.30pm, when Leigh Christmas lights switch on and parade will take place.

David will be joined by Southend Mencap’s general manager, Marc McOwens and other charity staff, volunteers, students and anyone else who wishes to join legs of the ten anda half hour journey.

The money raised will go towards expanding the impact of the Music Man Project a music service for people with a learning disability, difficulty or special educational need.

To take part, contact Marc McOwens on 01702 341250.