The Blind Jack Band album has been named in honour of local hero John Metcalf, who – despite becoming completely blind aged six – was an accomplished civil engineer, horseman, and fiddle player.

Born in 1717, Blind Jack built more than 180 miles of roads across the north of England in less than 30 years.

The CD, which features a range of singers and musicians from across Yorkshire, is the brainchild of band member Mark Ellison who was so impressed by the services offered to visually impaired people by Henshaws Yorkshire that he decided to raise funds for the charity.

“John Metcalfe never let his disability shape his life – his achievements were truly remarkable by anyone's standards and his triumph over adversity is an example to us all,” said Mark.

“Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre is very close to Jack's birthplace in Knaresborough, and Henshaws College is in the Harrogate area where he played his fiddle at dances. The Blind Jack Band CD features the sort of music that would have been familiar to Jack and is in aid of a charity that I'm sure he would have approved of.

“Henshaws Yorkshire is well known for its tremendous work with visually-impaired people, helping students gain self-confidence and independence.”

CDs are available from Tourist Information outlets, Henshaws College, in Bogs Lane, Starbeck and from Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre in Knaresborough. They are also available online at www.blindjack.co.uk – priced at £10. All profits go to Henshaws Yorkshire.

Alternatively you can send a cheque for £11 (including p&p) payable to 'Blind Jack' to The Blind Jack Band, 69, Fairways Avenue, Harrogate, HG2 7EN.