AN inspirational singer from Middle Wallop has defied the odds by performing new music after being told he would never be able to play again.

Marc Burford, 36, who is a singer and guitarist was diagnosed with with hyperacusis in 2019, a rare condition that affects the ear.

Hyperacusis is a type of reduced tolerance to sound. People with hyperacusis often find ordinary noises too loud, while loud noises can cause discomfort and pain.

Andover Advertiser: Marc Burford, 36, who is a singer and guitarist was diagnosed with with hyperacusis

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Marc developed a love for performing live when touring as a singer and guitarist for Echotape. During a tour of Europe with the band, he suddenly lost his ability to compress sound levels, making it impossible for him to play or listen to music.

"I would just over hear noises, for example putting my keys down on the table would make me jump out of my skin. The quietest sounds became unbearable. It was my worst nightmare", he said.

Marc said the news completely changed his life and after multiple trips to the doctor, he was told that he would have to learn to live with his condition.

He continued: "Making music is all I ever wanted to do and the thought of not being able to make music again made me feel suicidal."

Amazingly three years later, he is able to hear enough again to perform and write music after vising The Maas Clinic.

He said: "I think if you have something like that then it makes you realise that you can still do anything if you put your mind to it.

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"If ever I am having bad day I stop and remind myself how grateful I am and the fact that I couldn't hear.  It really made me feel like we all take being able to hear things for granted and being able to listen to music is a gift."

Marc has finished recording his solo album, which is set to be released next year and he is releasing a new single called Sweetest Summer on Friday, December 1.

Visit marcburford.com for more information.