THE artistic director of a Teignbridge music festival has crossed the pond and is gearing up to complete a more than 200 mile bike ride of Devon.

New York-based violist, David Yang, will depart on the 215 mile trip on Wednesday, May 14.

The ride, which will see David start and finish in Ashburton, is in aid of the Ashburton Chamber Music Festival.

Founded by David in 2019, the festival brings world-class musicians to the heart of South Devon.

David hopes to raise £3,000.

‘Since founding the Festival in 2019, with Andy Williamson of Ashburton Arts Centre, it has run on a very tight budget, with many artists giving their time for free and local volunteers hosting the performances’ David said.

In a time of increasing costs we want to ensure we support the artists and that the festival continues to thrive for the next six years!’ David added.

This year’s festival runs from July 17 to 27.

A mixture of both free and ticketed rehearsals and performances, the festival will feature emerging and renowned artists from around Ashburton and the surrounding villages.

‘We host the musicians within private homes and involve local volunteers in planning, which creates a far more personal experience - where audience members connect with the performers and the process of music-making’ David said.

‘It is a cultural exchange that only a close-knit community can offer and fosters lasting connections between artists and community members’ David added.

To follow David’s progress, and to donate, visit the Ashburton Chamber Music Festival website.