MORE than £11,000 has been raised for music charity B Sharp following an auction of memorabilia from rock legend and patron, Ian Gillan.

Lots were donated to the Lyme Regis’ charity by Mr Gillan, who found fame in bands Deep Purple and Gillan, and sold on behalf of the charity by Omega Auctions Ltd.

Bidders had the chance to get their hands on several rare pieces of rock history, including his drum kit, signed memorabilia, photographs, a number plate from world tours, and a handwritten book, which itself sold for more than £6,000.

Two of B Sharp’s young music leaders, Jon Pogson and Jacques Verhaeren, worked with Mr Gillan to catalogue the items that were auctioned.

The star himself offered them a lot of help, providing detaiuls of the history and significance of each item.

Ian Gillan said: “It was great to visit B Sharp HQ in Lyme Regis.

“The buzz was palpable and reminded me so much of my early days, practising every available minute with all the other budding ‘musos’ from our council estate in Houslow, West London, back in 1962.”

The auction offered a once in a lifetime chance to bid on exceptional items, and everyone who took part has contributed to providing funds towards the work of B Sharp in offering young people an opportunity to play live music.

Hannah Lovegrove, chair of B Sharp’s board, said: “This is such a big win for B Sharp. We are absolutely thrilled.

“It is a significant amount of money, one that allows us to do something really useful for the young people involved with B Sharp.

“I am so pleased for Ian too – in bidding for these lots, the fans have demonstrated their huge respect for him and his lifelong contribution to rock music around the world.

“We are immensely grateful to him.”

B Sharp is passionate about building a sound future for young people through music.

The group offers a broad, inclusive programme of music, singing, participation, creation, performance and development from early years to adulthood.