THE founder of a music group which has helped disabled residents across Southend perform on the biggest stages was honoured in a special BBC show last night.
Jason Manford hosted The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals which aired on the BBC last night (March 26) and saw musical stars including Alexandra Burke, Helen George and Michael Ball take to the stage.
The Music Man Project was highlighted during the event and their founder David Stanley, who runs the Southend project aimed at getting young adults and children with learning disabilities into the performing arts, was honoured on the night.
Introducing the project, Mr Manford said: "Now friends, as we all know and have seen and experienced even tonight, music can bring us all so much joy.
"And sharing that joy is what the brilliant Music Man Project in Southend is all about."
Musical theatre legend Michael Ball presented the award to David, coming out to specially arranged music David had written himself.
David's students thanked Mr Ball and piled on praise for him, with one of the musicians telling him he is the best singer in the world.
Handing him the award, Mr Ball told David: "This is why what you do is so amazing. It brings people together, this music it's just part of your lives. And isn't he an amazing man?
"And we wanted to show you how much we appreciate what you do by presenting you with this special award."
The group were also presented with new instruments to take back to Southend.
Speaking to PA, Mr Manford said: "That was actually one of my most favourite moments in a 25-year career, to be honest, because there’s a moment…when these kids see Michael Ball has come out to give them this award.
“There’s no filter with these kids and they just have to tell him how much they love him, It will just bring tears to a glass eye.”
The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals was held in Manchester in February and was set up as "a joyous celebration of musical theatre in Britain”.
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