Ex-serviceman who lost his legs in IRA bombing finds therapy in Harrogate choir

An ex-serviceman from Knaresborough, who was a victim of an IRA attack, has spoken of how singing has been his therapy after a career in the military.

Andy Mudd served in the The Royal Military Police for 18 years after joining up aged 18. He served in Germany, Ireland, London, Cyprus, and Lebanon.

While in Colchester with his wife in 1989, a bomb planted by the IRA exploded under their car.

Mr Mudd said:

“Luckily, my wife was only slightly injured.

“I, unfortunately, lost my right leg from the hip and the left one above the knee. I also lost two fingers on my right hand. But we survived!”

Despite his disability, Mr Mudd continued his work for his corps – serving seven years in a wheelchair — until 1996. He was awarded a British Empire Medal and was mentioned in Dispatches for his work.

After leaving the military, Mr Mudd joined the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association (BLESMA), where musician and choir-leader Gareth Malone scouted a group of singers to perform at the Invictus Games in Florida, in 2016.

It was then that Mr Mudd discovered his love for singing.

He added:

“I eagerly joined, although not singing since my days in the choir at Saint John’s Church, Knaresborough, in the 1970s.”

The group, which was named the Invictus Games Choir, also sang and recorded ‘Unbroken’ by John Bon Jovi at the world-renowned Abbey Road Studios.

From there, Mr Mudd went on to sing with the Help for Heroes Choir and Take That at the Royal Variety Show, as well as at The Royal Albert Hall and Sports Personality of the Year Awards.

Harrogate Male Voice Choir with the Ryelarks Choir.

Mr Mudd and his partner, Joyce, moved back to Harrogate last year and he quickly discovered the Harrogate Male Voice Choir to continue his singing journey.

He said:

“I was warmly welcomed into the 2nd tenor group and have been thrilled to sing with this fine male voice choir.

“Two hours of rehearsals every Tuesday evening fills my heart with joy.

“It’s a great therapy; always learning and producing a great sound.”

One member of the choir, Lawrie Coulthard, told the Stray Ferret:

“Andy is a most welcome addition to our choir.

“Not only having a splendid voice, but his happy persona also adds enormously to our friendly atmosphere at rehearsals and concerts.”

The choir, which was formed nearly 55 years ago, now has around 50 members and sings a variety of musical genres.

It has performed at a range of venues, from village churches and castles, to stately homes and even The Royal Albert Hall.

Mr Mudd added:

“I have enjoyed it so much and recommend it to anyone who wants to sing.

“Come and join us!”

The choir rehearses every week at Woodlands Methodist Church on Wetherby Road.

Those wishing to join can call 07905515492.

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