MARK King of Level 42 has become the very first patron of Portsmouth Guildhall.

Making the announcement, Portsmouth Cultural Trust, the charity that runs the Portsmouth Guildhall, said they are "delighted" and "honoured" that Mark - founder, lead singer and bassist with the legendary band, has agreed to be their patron.

Level 42's hit's include Lessons In Love, Something About You and Running in The Family and Mark, who was born in Cowes still lives on the Isle of Wight.

The charity has been running the Guildhall, one of the busiest music venues in the South, since 2011. It also provides a wide range of music based activities for people of all ages, particularly those who have the fewest opportunities in life, to access either free of charge or at a greatly reduced price. However, like many organisations facing statutory funding cuts, this only remains possible thanks to the generosity of the individuals, businesses and charitable trusts that help fund these activities.

Lorraine Pink, Director of Fundraising at the Guildhall said: “We are delighted and honoured to have Mark King as our first ever Patron. Not only is he an incredibly talented musician, he’s also one of the nicest and down-to-earth people you are ever likely to meet. Mark’s support will be key in helping us raise awareness of what we do. As a charity we depend on the generosity of our many donors to help secure our future. Every gift, no matter the size, enables us to continue to bring the joy of music to people of all ages across the region and beyond and we look forward to working with Mark.”

Mark King reciprocated saying, “I am thrilled to become a Patron of the Portsmouth Guildhall. Music venues, like the Guildhall, are the life-blood of the live music industry and we have to ensure they continue to thrive. I’m looking forward to getting involved and helping where I can.”