BEETHOVEN has raised thousands of pounds for Comic Relief – 188 years after his death.

All nine of his famous symphonies were performed back-to-back in an epic performance at the Turner Sims Concert Hall in Southampton.

Hampshire musicians Craig Lawton and Paul Ingram conducted a 50-piece orchestra and 75 choristers in a marathon event lasting ten hours.

Members of the hand-picked Beethovathon Orchestra were given a standing ovation at the end of the unique concert.

Paul, 38, of Hedge End, said: “It was great to get through all nine symphonies in a day and there was a lot of cheering and applauding at the finish.

“People started to feel a bit jaded towards the end of the ninth symphony but we all had a wonderful time.

“I think Beethoven himself would have loved it. It was a unique way to celebrate his music and he’d have really appreciated what we did.”

The event is thought to have raised at least £4,000 but the final figure will be known later.