An Ed Sheeran-themed guitar challenge based on the pop star's hit song 'Castle on the Hill' has raised more than £3,000 for a mental health charity in Suffolk.
The challenge, called Castle Guitar Quest, was organised by Suffolk Mind and involved 40 people who had to learn and perform a famous song in three weeks.
At the end of the challenge, 27 participants performed the song at a gig at Framlingham Castle on February 10.
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The charity's chief executive Jon Neal, who also took part, said: “It was brilliant to brush up on my guitar skills and learn something new.
“Hobbies like playing instruments are a great way to meet our need for Achievement, as well as Privacy if we practice on our own, or our need for Community if we are in groups.
“This challenge is proof of what we can achieve when we come together and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped us raise money to support mental health in Suffolk.”
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People of all ages and abilities took part in the challenge, with the youngest guitarist aged just eight.
Everyone who took part received access to daily online tutorials courtesy of Ipswich Guitar School’s Richard Deyn.
Friends and family of those taking part were invited to the gig at Framlingham Castle, where participants performed with Mr Deyn's band.
READ MORE: Framlingham news
They were also taught how to play The Killers' hit Mr Brightside and Bryan Adams' Summer of ‘69 on the day.
James Skeates, who raised £120 during the challenge, has experience of mental health challenges and wanted to raise money to help others.
He always wanted to play guitar and soon recognised the benefits of learning the new skill.
He said: “Learning a musical instrument or any sort of hobby isn’t just a distraction, it’s doing something constructive.
“You’re learning which is good for you and using your brain, but also it gives you that escape from what you might be suffering with and going through at the time.”
As a thank you for taking part, participants also received a unique commemorative guitar pick.
READ MORE: Suffolk news
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