A MUSICAL RAF veteran from Weymouth is helping raise funds to support the Pavilion Theatre during the pandemic.

Local showman Peter Price, 95, has recorded a CD of himself singing classics hits of times gone by, and is donating the proceeds to the Pavilion to ensure future generations will still be able to enjoy live performances - or even perform themselves - on their local stage.

Mr Price's CD of 15 tracks includes songs such as ‘Fly me to the moon,’ ‘Black Magic’ and ‘Moon River,’ as well as a selection of numbers that were recorded live at the Pavilion back in 2003.

His proud granddaughter Amanda Burley said: "My granddad has spent a lifetime on the stage in many different areas of the UK and also several countries, singing with his band as well as performing a magic act.

"Peter is passionate about retaining the Pavilion theatre as a local entertainment venue and focal point for the town."

Mr Price has passed on his performing talents down the family line: Amanda explained that many of his great grandchildren are also involved in the local performing arts scene, and have been active in a range of theatre groups including Weymouth Operatic Workshop (WOW), and June Hornby and Julie Storey’s dance schools. Another has even carried on to do a degree course in musical theatre.

Amanda added: "Peter feels it is of upmost importance to have a space for local performers to release their energy, find their potential - and to entertain."

Weymouth Pavilion was recently awarded grant funding from the Government's Culture Recovery Fund (CRF) to help the facility survive the challenges posed by coronavirus.

However, residents are still being urged to support their theatre so that the facility can continue to meet running costs.

Peter Price's CDs are on sale at £5 each, or £6.50 including postage.

They can be purchased at the Pavilion Box Office; Lynch Lane Garden Centre; Cobwebs Internet Cafe on Great George Street, and One Stop at Lynch Road - cash only.

You can also get your hands on a copy by emailing Amanda at amandaburley72@gmail.com