HOUSEBUILDER Taylor Wimpey Midlands has donated £500 to the English Symphony Orchestra to help fund its programme of concerts in care homes and hospices.

The ESO, which is based in Deansway, Worcester, launched a campaign at the end of last year with the aim of raising money to put on the series of concerts and has managed to raise around £9,000, enough to pay for about 30 concerts throughout the year.

Mary Stevens, fundraiser and co-ordinator of concerts in care homes for the ESO, said: "The donation from Taylor Wimpey has made a huge difference. This is a record year for us as it is a long time since we have been able to fund this many concerts. Music can provide comfort and hope to listeners in all stages of life but all too often, when people reach their last days, the music stops. The ESO is deeply committed to helping people in care homes and hospices whose wellbeing, health and happiness are greatly enhanced by the life-affirming power of live music."

Stephen Warner, who plays double bass and guitar for the ESO, added: “We give lots of concerts but I think our performances in care homes are the only situations where we genuinely make a difference to somebody’s life.”

Anne Wallace, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey Midlands, said: "As a local housebuilder we feel it’s important to develop strong links with the local community and we are delighted to support the wonderful work that the ESO is doing."