'Learning to DJ has awakened my brain after injury'

Ashleigh Crowley and David Wilson are looking forward to performing in Salisbury

Two friends who suffered life-changing brain injuries say learning to DJ has helped with their rehabilitation.

David Wilson, 38, who was stabbed in an unprovoked attack in 2005, and Ashleigh Crowley, 35, who was in a serious car accident in 2007, have been mentored by Wiltshire DJ Emma Ryalls.

Mr Wilson, who is also a drum and bass MC, said the lessons had "significantly" awakened his brain.

The pair will perform their skills in their first showcase event in Salisbury on Friday evening.

Emma Ryalls (R) said she "absolutely loves" teaching both her students

Sophia Violet from the DJ collective Girls Don't Sync, who is Ms Ryall's daughter, is headlining the event, which takes place at Rude Giant Beer House in Salisbury.

"Obviously, I'm a bit nervous, but once I get up there I'll be fine," said Mr Wilson, who performs as MC 3-Bee.

He explained he was injured after being stabbed in his right eye with the blade penetrating his brain.

"My thinking is a bit blurred. I can't focus or anything for too long without getting confused.

"I'm learning to walk again now," he added.

The MC started learning to DJ with Ms Ryalls, also known as DJ Emma, because music has always been his "passion".

"It's something I've always loved doing."

A drum and bass MC before his injury, Mr Wilson's mum Kim said: "He started doing the DJ lessons with Emma... and all of a sudden he's started coming out with these lyrics.

"It's really awakened his brain."

"Significantly," added Mr Wilson, who lives in Basingstoke.

Mr Wilson said he can also now can listen to a song and learn it "word for word".

"I've got a superpower," he added.

DJ Emma and her students have performed on Brixton Radio together

Ms Crowley, whose alias is Ash DJ, lives in Amesbury, Wiltshire, with her parents.

Her mum, Alison, said music had been "a great part" of her daughter's rehabilitation process.

"The house is filled with laughter and music on a Friday morning when Emma comes for DJ lessons."

She said Ms Ryalls had "been a great support".

"[Ashleigh] enjoys it, it's extended her social circle, but also it's helped expand her concentration."

"It's quite emotional for all those involved seeing how far Ashleigh has come," added Mrs Crowley.

Ashleigh's mum Alison said the lessons had helped her daughter's rehabilitation

Ms Ryalls, who lives near Salisbury, said: "They've both come on so well. Gone from strength to strength."

"Even though the lessons might take them longer to learn something than someone who hasn't had that brain injury, they do learn it and it's very rewarding for me to see the small steps and see them making progress.

"Mainly, they just absolutely love it."

She added: "I feel really, really proud of them both."

Also on the bill for the event are Keltz, Zeph Miles and DJ Emma.

Donations from the night will go towards anti-knife crime charities.