A PENSIONER who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013 is taking part in a trial to show how music can support people with the disease.

Mick Broad, 70, of Thurlstone, was formally diagnosed with the disease 12 years ago - but he’s vowed to keep active which he says has helped him throughout his life.

He does Tai chi on a Monday, yoga on a Tuesday, pilates on a Wednesday and even has turned his hand to drum lessons on a Friday.

Since his diagnosis he’s taken part in more than 50 medical trials - and one in particular has caught his eye.

Manchester’s Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) has been researching into the way music can support people living with the condition

It sees people living with Parkinson’s working with composers to create music which reflects their own personalities and love of music.

And Mick, having worked with composer Emily Howard, said it was a powerful moment to hear a piece dedicated to him performed in front of a sell-out crowd.

He said: “There’s a magazine called Parkinson’s UK and they have a section where you can find out about research.

“I’ve been interested in music since being a child.

“I said that I’d be interested in the research, led by Michelle Phillips, and it looks at how music can help people with Parkinson’s.

“I inundated Emily with 200 music clips and she put together something called Seven Ways to Move and she dedicated it to me.

“There was a world premiere recently and the music is very dramatic.

“People who can’t walk are able to hear music and then dance.

“It’s amazing.”