Toseland to play piano at old folk’s complex

7:04pm Friday 16th May 2008

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RESIDENTS at a North Yorkshire care home will be entertained by a world champion motorcyclist and world-class pianist.

World Superbike Champion James Toseland will demonstrate his talents as a world-class pianist when he entertains residents and invited guests at Oaklands Care Home in Kirk Hammerton on, Friday, May 23.

Britain's only contender in the 2008 MotoGP series is fast becoming as well-known for his musical prowess as his motorcycle racing ability.

The 27-year old reigning World Superbike Champion recently received rapturous applause when he played the piano live to a nationwide television audience on the 2007 BBC Sports Personality Of The Year show.

His number of phone votes increased rapidly following the exciting performance and propelled James into fourth place - closely behind boxer Ricky Hatton. Since then, he has appeared on Question Of Sport and BBC Sport Relief.

Off the racetrack, James is passionate about music - whether he is behind the piano or performing with his band, Crash. The MotoGP star - whose grandmother taught him to play the piano - is proud of his roots and was delighted to be invited to play at Oaklands.

Oaklands offers residential care and respite services to 44 elderly people. The home is located in the peaceful village of Kirk Hammerton, on the outskirts of Boroughbridge and Harrogate. It has established an excellent reputation in the local area for delivering consistently high standards of care and promoting independence A spokesman for the care home said: "James was taught to play by his grandmother and he is great with old people.

"He loves to play the piano and people love to listen to him play."

James will spend the afternoon with residents, before heading off to an evening performance at Troutbeck Nursing Home in Ilkley. The two homes are part of the Maria Mallaband Care Group (MMCG), which has developed into one of the UK's leading elderly care providers. The Leeds-based group owns 47 properties spanning from the Channel Islands to County Durham, including eight in the Yorkshire region.