A TEACHER and town councillor is starting a new venture bringing music to children and adults with learning disabilities.

David Stanley is leaving his role as assistant headteacher at Eastwood Academy to focus on Southend Mencap Music School.

Mr Stanley, also a Leigh town councillor, founded the music school 12 years ago and will now run the Music Man project full time.

He said: “One of the reasons I became a local councillor was to champion the rights and opportunities for people with a learning disability. I am delighted I can begin to achieve this by expanding my work with such a wonderful charity as Southend Mencap.”

He will produce original music compositions with the aim of helping the physical, social and emotional development of people with extra needs.

Mr Stanley, a teacher for 11 years, will also run a supporting website for parents and teachers, with consultancy advice for schools.

There will be a special school centre of excellence at Kingsdown School in Eastwood and a full-time adult provision taught across four venues in south east Essex.

Margaret Rimmer, headteacher of Kingsdown School, said: “I am very excited by the Music Man project as it will provide a much- needed provision.

“I know it will have a very positive impact on the learning of every pupil who attends Kingsdown School.

“With David’s inspiration, professionalism, drive and talent I am confident the project will succeed.”

Mr Stanley, 35, from Leigh, has been involved with Mencap for years and recently raised more than £5,000 for the charity by playing continuously for 24-hours on the end of Southend Pier.

For more information, or to book a place on the Music Man project, contact Marc McOwens at Southend Mencap at marc.

mcowens@southendmencap.co .uk or call 01702 341250.

For details visit www.david stanleymusic.co.uk