‘Being on stage feels like a dream'

The band wants to see the music scene in Bedford become more accessible

An inclusive band is hoping to break fully into a local music scene and make it more accessible.

Delta Sonic, which features musicians with learning difficulties and autism, recently performed at a gig organised by the Bedford charity, Living It Up.

"Being on stage feels like a dream," said lead singer, Stuart.

Claire Crawford-Smith, 53, who co-founded the charity, said it hoped to host more gigs with disability and non-disability bands to showcase talent.

She added: "Bedford has a big music scene and we want people with learning disabilities to be part of that."

Finley performed in front of a crowd for the first time at a concert organised by the Living It Up charity

"Our plan is to hold more gigs where disability bands play alongside non-disability bands, showing the wider community how talented they are and what a good show they put on," she added.

"For one of our band members, Finley, it was his first time performing in front of a crowd, and seeing his excitement was a complete joy."

She said the charity hoped future events would help people with learning disabilities to feel more accepted, and show how important it is that venues are accessible to all.

"We want to give opportunities to people with a learning disability that others in society take for granted," she added.

The band played their first gig at St Cuthbert's Hall in Bedford

Delta Sonic’s lead singer, Stuart, said: "It gives us a platform to show people what music is all about.

"We can’t wait to do it again."

Living It Up is part of the two-day Headfest festival in Bedford, supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

Headfest, in association with BBC Three Counties Radio and Impakt, takes place on the 21 and 22 October at The Quarry Theatre.