A MUSICIAN finished a 100-mile walk of the South Downs Way with a song in memory of his music teacher.

Alex Ling, 28, trekked from Eastbourne to Winchester across six days in his challenge ‘100 Miles for Martin’, honouring his sixth form music teacher who died 10 years ago aged 53.

Completing the final straight in Winchester High Street, Alex was greeted by a group of singers and supporters who joined him in performing On the Steps of the Buttercross, a folksong for the much-loved composer.

Hampshire Chronicle: Alex Ling performing 'On the Steps of the Buttercross' in Winchester High Street

The Martin Read Foundation was founded to continue the teacher’s legacy and support young composers. The 100-mile challenge has raised more than £1,300, surpassing the £1,000 target.

READ MORE: Musician to finish 100-mile trek for Winchester teacher with singalong

Hampshire Chronicle: Alex completing 100 miles for Martin

Alex said: “We were behind schedule when we eventually met our fellow hikers at Cheesefoot Head at four o’clock.

"The shop supplying the power for our digital piano would close at half past five. That gave us less than an hour and a half to walk five miles. We charged down the hillside towards Winchester. As we passed the village of Chilcomb, it was all or nothing.

“We picked up the pace, even breaking into a run. Tearing through the outskirts of Winchester, we arrived just in the nick of time.

"A merry troupe of singers were there to greet us. A quick run-through of the chorus attracted passers-by and all joined together for a rousing rendition of this great Hampshire folk song. A fitting way to remember a truly great music teacher and to support the charity set up in his name. Many thanks to everyone for supporting 100 Miles for Martin.”

To donate or read Alex’s full report go to crowdfunder.co.uk/p/martin-read-foundation-100miles.