Michael Ball sings with disability group at Albert Hall

Musical and theatre star Michael Ball said it was "a joy" to perform at the Royal Albert Hall alongside hundreds of musicians with learning disabilities.

More than 700 performers - including 250 from the Music Man Project which started in Essex - sang along with the Royal Marines Band.

Wendy Wilson, whose family travelled to London from Wales to see her perform said: "I can't believe it."

Ball said: "I hope this is the first of many times we perform together."

David Stanley, founder of the Music Man Project, said Monday night's concert was "in honour" of the murdered Southend West MP Sir David Amess, adding he "would have loved it".

Sir David - who supported the charity for years before his death in 2021 - said the performers were destined for Broadway, Mr Stanley said.

Listen: Michael Ball sings with Southend charity

The project has expanded across the UK with 14 regional teaching centres and its participants perform nationally and abroad.

The charity released a Christmas single in 2022, which reached the top 10 in the UK charts.

Monday's concert featured students from places including Bristol, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Lancashire, North Ayrshire, Suffolk and West Sussex.

Ian Jewell, from Southend-on-Sea, said he was "very nervous" when he performed at the 2019 concert, but was more relaxed this time.

"I just like doing the trips and the concerts, being here at the Albert Hall again - I love it," he told the BBC.

Meanwhile, Ms Wilson has been involved with the Music Man Project since she was in school.

"My uncle Pat and uncle Tony came down from Wales to see me perform - I can't believe it," she said.

Michael Ball became involved with the charity in 2023, telling the BBC he "leapt" at the chance to become its patron.

"It does nothing but bring joy, acceptance and a platform for people with learning disabilities, and we share this language of music," he said.

The charity wishes to one day reach Broadway, with the hope their new patron "may get it over the line", said Mr Stanley.

Follow East of England news on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a story? Email [email protected] or WhatsApp 0800 169 1830