I am the Chairman of Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust (Reg. Charity No. 1098277) and I am currently undertaking the Coast to Coast Walk in aid of my charity. The walk is a 182-mile (293 km) hike along the famous long-distance footpath in Northern England. Devised by Alfred Wainwright, it passes through three contrasting national parks: the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the North York Moors National Park.

A chorister’s daily routine of rehearsal and performance is a priceless experience for any musical boy or girl. Former choristers excel in all areas of music – classical and popular – as performers, arrangers and technicians. It is essential for Britain’s international musical reputation that trained young talent continues to spring from our cathedrals but that can only happen if all children with musical potential are able to enjoy this opportunity.

Alas, this is no longer the reality. Every year at auditions, increasing numbers of the most promising applicants are disappointed because their families cannot afford to take up their places. Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust has been set up to raise a fund large enough to ensure that these children are not denied this life-changing chance.

With the support of its Royal Patron, HRH The Countess of Wessex, the Trust is determined that no child with musical talent should miss out on these opportunities for financial reasons.