A BUSKER who has spent nearly two decades working the streets of Redcar is to perform in Sir William Turner's Hospital, a venue usually reserved for classical music.

Norman Evans, a wheelchair-bound grandfather who suffers from MS, will take part in a special fund-raising concert after personally raising hundreds of pounds for the almshouses' upkeep.

Last week Mr Evans of Marske, who has been awarded an MBE for raising more than £250,000 for charity, had a look around the historic Kirkleatham building and examined its treasures, including Sir William's death mask.

"I've always loved this building and I'm just glad to help out," said Mr Evans, who began collecting for MS support groups on Redcar High Street 18 years ago.

"I get loads of support from the people of Redcar. When it rains shopkeepers take me inside and other people sometimes get me a cup of tea. It's lovely," said Mr Evans, who plays a variety of instruments including the banjo and accordion.

The music and poetry concert will take place in the chapel at the almshouses on Friday, October 18. Tickets cost £5 (£3.50 concessions) and are available from Norman Evans on the High Street or Sotheran's Stationery Shop, Queen Street, (01642) 490401.