COUNTY council chairman Colin Davidovitz is the latest to join more than 3,000 people rallying to smash the record for the largest ukulele ensemble at St Mary’s Stadium later this month.

The councillor has been busy strumming his miniature guitar after receiving lessons from Hampshire Music Service ready for the attempt on July 18.

The majority of those taking part will be from the county’s schools, keen to tune in for the attempt which will be led by children’s entertainer Justin Fletcher MBE – known as Mr Tumble from CBeebies.

The current record is held by 2,134 participants who performed at the Leiland Grow Incorporated Ukulele Picnic in Japan in July 2012 – but now Hampshire is hoping to do better.

Cllr Davidovitz said: “Considering this was the first time I have played a ukulele, I quickly picked up a couple of chords and found it fairly easy.

“I am committed to practising now, ready for the record bid on July 18, and I intend to be at the very least competent, but I don’t think I’ll ever match George Formby’s talents.

“I hope that a lot more people will come along with their ukuleles too, including my colleagues in the county council. If we are going to bid for the world record we will need to try to put on such a score that no one can beat it.”

The record attempt at Southampton Football Club is being led by the Hampshire Music Hub in conjuction with Hampshire Music Service.

Head of Hampshire music service Jill Larner said: “Having the chairman’s support for our ambition is tremendous.

“The response to our appeal for ukulele players to take part has been fantastic, but we really do need many more to join us if we are to have a good chance of strumming our way in to the record books.

“We have been working with classes and groups all over Hampshire teaching them how to play the ukulele and this world record attempt is a marvellous motivation for learning and a great way to end the school year on a high note.”

Entry costs £6, or £3 for concessions.

Tickets can be booked by calling Hampshire Music Service on 023 8065 2037 or emailing music.service@hants.gov.uk.