Legendary bass guitarist Mark Griffiths, of the Shadows, has helped a charity tune into a new fundraising project for terminally ill people.

He has developed a series of retro guitars being sold by Sue Ryder aptly called The Ryder – which the organisation hopes will strike a chord with music- lovers.

It is part of the charity’s scheme to sell musical instruments both online and in its shops, such as in Keighley and Haworth.

The Ryder comes in ten models – four solid-bodied electric, one semi-acoustic, two acoustic, two classical and an electric bass.

The instruments are designed to appeal to beginners and advanced players.

Griffiths, who is on a sell-out tour of the UK this month with Cliff Richard and the Shadows, said: “The Ryder guitars are great value for money.

“They are within the student price range but can be used by professionals. All of the guitars have been through a rigorous testing process to ensure they really do deliver.”

Alan Hodges, director of retail at Sue Ryder Care, said the collection of Ryder guitars was unique.

“It’s stylish and is made using quality components, chosen, tested and approved by Mark to ensure each guitar delivers an outstanding performance,” he said.

“By buying one and supporting Sue Ryder in this way, local people can help us make a real difference to the lives of the thousands of people we care for each year.” Sue Ryder Care’s musical instruments are available from its shops and online at suerydercareshop.com and ryderguitars.

co.uk.

All money raised will help provide care for people with end-of-life and long-term conditions including cancer, stroke, multiple sclerosis, dementia, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and motor neurone disease.