MUSICIAN Tony Moore jetted into High Wycombe for the launch of his UK tour - which will raise thousands for charity.

The former Iron Maiden and Cutting Crew member has been flying solo around the UK doing a series of acoustic gigs at airfields to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

During the launch at Wycombe airfield last Friday, Tony was also joined on stage by Sinead Quinn of Fame Academy fame as well as The Feeling's drummer Paul Stewart, who turned up to show his support. A second gig was held at White Waltham airfield on Sunday.

Tony said: "So far the tour has been a fantastic success. I actually learned to fly in High Wycombe and I have lots of friends there so it a place that is close to my heart. The response has been amazing and everyone has been enjoying themselves."

The newly-qualified pilot has been flying around the country in a Cessna 172 SP aeroplane to all the gigs and so far the tour has raised £1,600 for the charity.

Tony added: "I'm flying in and playing right there at the airfield and it's like having a transit van in the sky. I'm the roadie, pilot and artist all in one. I'm happy that we have raised so much and it is definitely more than I expected. I have worked with the teenage cancer charity in the past but always in London so this was the chance to go around the country. They do a great job and I'm happy to be involved."

Tony has helped launch the careers of singer/songwriters in the charts including Paulo Nutini, KT Tunstall and James Morrison at his London venues - The Kashmir Klub, The Bedford and The Regal Rooms.

All the shows will be free but people are asked to make a donation and Tony is hopeful that the tour will manage to raise £10,000.

For more information on upcoming gigs visit www.tonymoore.com or to make a donation to the charity visit www.theteenagecancertrust.org