A group of musicians have joined together to pay tribute to a local musician and teacher by performing at a concert in Urmston.

The concert, which will take place today (November 23), is set to honour the life of Dave McLeod (Hill) – who taught many of Trafford’s musicians.

Dave died at the age of 76, after a battle with lung cancer and the event will take place on his birthday.

One of the hosts, Stephen Irlam, said: “He was a real pillar of the community.”

The event aims to bring musicians from across the city who want to pay their respects to Dave but could not attend his funeral.

The teacher impacted many of Trafford’s local musicians through teaching at community centres and schools or getting them started at open mic nights.

Stephen said: “Everybody has a teacher that you look back and can see had a big impact on your life – I think for a lot of people that was Dave.”

Stephen, 38, has toured with Simple Minds and has worked with The Lightning Seeds as a guitar technician – Dave laid down the foundations of his music career and so many other up and coming artists in the area.

The show will feature a live house band as well as industry professionals taught by Dave, as well as friends and family.

Mo Peters, a friend of Dave’s and life-long performer, said: “The event has gotten bigger and bigger. It was Dave’s warmth as well as his talent that everyone loved.”

Dave performed for years at venues across Urmston and continued to entertain locals even during Covid restrictions through live streams and street performances to bring people together.

Mo, who met Dave 10 years ago at an open mic, said: “I remember a New Year’s Eve performance at the Greek and he brought the house down.

“He was always smiling and was able to get everybody going.”

The event has extended beyond the local area, with musicians from outside the city expressing an interest in the event – bringing together musicians in their shared memory and appreciation of Dave.

The proceeds of the concert are going to the Greater Manchester Asbestos Victims Support Group – the charity nominated by Dave’s family.

The group are still welcoming any musicians who wish to pay tribute and encourage people to come to the concert this weekend.

Tickets are available through Eventbrite and on the door.

The concert will take place at Urmston Mens' Club and Institute from 7pm.