THE founder of a music group that has helped disabled residents across Southend perform on the biggest stages including the Royal Albert Hall and the London Palladium could be given freedom of the city.

David Stanley BEM is the founder of the Music Man Project, a disability-friendly music group based in Southend, that was set up in 2000.  

The music teacher could now be given Freedom of the City in Southend after a nomination to the council has been made.

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After being founded more than twenty years ago now, the group has proved a hit across the country and even across the pond in countries such as the USA, Nepal, India, South Africa, and the Philippines.

They even performed for the judges on the famous ITV show Britain’s Got Talent.

After hearing about being nominated for Freedom of the City, Mr Stanley, said it was overwhelming.  

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He said: “Learning that someone has nominated me to have Freedom of the City in Southend is completely overwhelming.

“I love Southend and I love the people, particularly those who have disabilities, their families, carers and charities who support them.

“This community has been part of my life for nearly 25 years, and I would share the honour with the exceptional students from the original Music Man Project in Southend who inspire and motivate me every day.”

Before his tragic death on October 15, 2021, Sir David Amess, supported The Music Man Project for more than a decade, before becoming its president.

The group also sang at the former Southend West MP’s funeral.

Mr Stanley added that this Freedom of the City would be even more meaningful due to his friendship with Sir David.

He said: “Receiving the honour would be especially meaningful because my friend and supporter, Sir David Amess, was granted Freedom of Southend posthumously as the first ever recipient.

“Sir David was always so proud of our achievements, and he was our biggest champion.

“The Music Man Project has received lots of recognition over the past couple of years, but this nomination is about Southend.

“I have always been proud to promote this City, from the students I have taught at The Music Man Project and local Specials Schools to the incredible people and organisations who have helped me along the way.”