Guisborough'S mayor is all set to hit a high note in his civic year.

Coun Brian Whiteley is forming a four-piece blues band. and the group's debut performance will be at a charity night for the mayor's year in office.

Coun Whiteley will play bass guitar in the new group he is forming with friends photographer Dennis Firman and husband and wife team Judy and Mick Smith from Great Broughton.

The idea has come from Monday night jam sessions at the Black Swan in Guisborough when musicians get on stage for impromptu performances.

"I often go down there and take my bass guitar," said Coun Whiteley. "Everyone agreed I should use one of the Mondays for my charity night."

Then he thought it would be good to form his own band with Mr Firman on lead guitar, Judy Snaith on drums, Mick Snaith on guitar and harmonica and himself doing vocals and bass.

The band is being called Spinning Coin after an album by blues legend John Mayall, Coun Whiteley's favourite blues artist.

Now 50, Coun Whiteley has been playing since he was 15 and has been with other bands.

"It's just a hobby but I love it," he said.

The band will make its debut on October 16 at the mayor's charity night at the Black Swan. Proceeds are for the Friends of RSPCA Great Ayton, admission is free and the event runs from 8-11pm.

There will be live blues music.