Sponsored cycle in memory of singing teacher

Jasmine LoweBBC News
News imageNorthern Academy Of Performing Arts Paul FrankishNorthern Academy Of Performing Arts
Paul Frankish died from sepsis in March 2019

A sponsored cycling event has raised more than £2,000 in memory of a "much loved" musical director and singing teacher.

Paul Frankish, who taught at Hull's Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA), died from sepsis in March 2019.

On Saturday, 68 people, including students, staff and parents, took part in the event at the organisation's Anlaby Road base.

Organiser Paddy Start said the day had been "filled with joy and laughter."

News imageNorthern Academy Of Performing Arts participants of the 17 hour cycle ride at Hull's NAPANorthern Academy Of Performing Arts
In total, 68 people took part in the sponsored cycling event

Participants covered 230 miles (370km) in 17 hours, the distance from Hull to the Apollo Victoria Theatre, in London, where Mr Frankish worked on the musical Wicked.

The money will go to the Paul Frankish Fund, which helps NAPA students afford to attend expensive London-based auditions.

NAPA's chief executive, Carl Wheatley, described Mr Frankish as: "A real champion for young people, and supportive of local young people who are taking their next steps into the industry."

News imageNorthern Academy Of Performing Arts Two members of staff at NAPA who participated in the fundraiserNorthern Academy Of Performing Arts
Carl Wheatley, NAPA's chief executive and Paddy Start, NAPA's head of musical theatre and outreach

Paddy Start, NAPA's head of musical theatre and outreach, said the event had been a "whirlwind of emotion" and said Mr Frankish was a, "dear colleague and friend who touched many people emotionally."

Follow BBC East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire on FacebookX, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].