Lockdown Street Singer

1440. Martin Davidson

At the start of the outbreak, Martin lost a friend to suicide. While furloughed from his job, he wanted to reach out to all those in his community who have been isolating, using his music to help their wellbeing and provide human connection. Martin has been averaging five gigs a day, which included performing at seven street parties on VE Day 75th anniversary. He has also performed at the Manchester Arena to perform in remembrance of those who died in the terrorist attack of 2017.

In a personal letter to Martin, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:

“I want to thank you for bringing the gift of music to the people of Manchester – and especially to those living and working in care homes.

“I am lost in admiration for the number of socially distanced performances you have given, including seven street parties on VE Day!

“You have brought a moment of joy into the lives of so many and I am delighted to be able to recognise your service through this special series of awards, honouring those who are giving back to others as we battle to defeat Coronavirus.

“On behalf of the whole country, congratulations on becoming the UK’s 1440th Point of Light – and I hope you continue to spread kindness through song.”

Martin said:

“I am very humbled and honoured, and I’m still in a little bit of shock about receiving this award.

“I would like to thank you all for thinking of me and it is very appreciated, my friends and family are very proud.

“I wanted to try and make a difference during a lockdown after suffering from mental health illnesses myself in the way of anxiety and recently lost a friend in the lockdown to a mental health issue. I did not want people to feel this way and did not want others to go through what my friends family have recently been through.

“I’ve loved every minute of this and will continue to do so in my spare time, and I want to spend as much time on it as possible.”