Castle Guitar Quest raises more than £3,000 for Suffolk Mind

Suffolk Mind’s first fundraising challenge of 2024 was Castle Guitar Quest, a guitar challenge which saw more than 40 people learn Ed Sheeran’s classic ‘Castle on the Hill’ in just three weeks.

At the end of the challenge, 27 participants performed the song at a gig at Framlingham Castle on Saturday 10 February.

Our CEO Jon Neal, also took part in the challenge. He said: “It was brilliant to brush up on my guitar skills and learn something new.

“Hobbies like playing instruments are a great way to meet our need for Achievement, as well Privacy if we practice on our own, or our need for Community if we are in groups.

“This challenge is proof of what we can achieve when we come together, and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped us raise money to support mental health in Suffolk.”

People of all ages and abilities took part in the challenge, with the youngest guitarist aged just eight!

Everyone who took part received access to daily online tutorials courtesy of Ipswich Guitar School’s Richard Deyn.

Friends and family of those taking part were invited to the gig at Framlingham Castle, where participants performed with Richard’s band. Not only that, but they were also taught how to play Mr Brightside and Summer of ‘69 on the day.

James Skeates, who raised £120, has experience of mental health challenges and wanted to raise money to help others.

He always wanted to play guitar and soon recognised the benefits of learning the new skill. He said: “Learning a musical instrument or any sort of hobby isn’t just a distraction, it’s doing something constructive.

“You’re learning which is good for you, and using your brain, but also it gives you that escape from what you might be suffering with and going through at the time.”

We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part. Plus a special thank you to Richard at Ipswich Guitar School and his brand, and Framlingham College for hosting the gig.

Take a look at our gallery of pictures from Castle Guitar Quest