I first met the children, families and teachers of OK Music Trust when I was mayor of Richmond upon Thames in 2019. Their courage, talent, warmth and love has been an inspiration to me ever since and I am proud to be their patron. At every performance I attend I see how much they have grown in confidence and in their ability to communicate through music. It was at their last performance when I decided that, if they are brave enough to perform in front of me and a big audience, then I should be brave too and perform in front of them. The song I will be performing is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" because, to me, it exemplifies the yearning we all have for a better place and a better tomorrow.

Please do sponsor me generously. Why? Well, it could be fun to see if I manage to be that brave. More importantly, because every penny will go to the trust so that they can continue the wonderful work they do with our local children.

For more information about the Trust, keep reading!

OK Music School was set up 10 years ago and is teaching 76 children and young people with additional needs, who are often excluded from mainstream music activities, to play a musical instrument or sing and perform in public concerts, gaining confidence and self-esteem. Pupils gain communication and social interaction improve and they make friends. 18 pupils have even passed 35 music exams.

OK Music School makes pupils feel confident and happy and performing in our concerts makes them and their families feel proud.

"Music makes me happy, and I look forward to coming to music lessons."

"I like seeing my music school friends, they are my good friends.

It encourages me to perform in front of a large audience, which helps boost my confidence."

"The therapist has taught our severely autistic child to read music, play in public concerts, count herself in, and to be very proud of her achievements. We can ask for no more."