Jake Bugg, and David Gray to headline Mencap's Little Noise Sessions

The headliners for Mencap's Little Noise Sessions held again this year at Union Chapel, Islington on Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd October 2014 has been announced.

This year they are both British male solo artists! Wednesday will see Jake Bugg top the bill and stepping up to the mic on Thursday will be David Gray.

Host and curator, Jo Whiley, announced "Mencap Little Noise Sessions are so special to me. As well as an opportunity to see big acts usually reserved for arenas in an intimate venue, the money raised helps Mencap provide vital services for people with a learning disability, their families and carers.

"This is an issue close to my heart and I can't thank the artists enough for giving people a chance to share their love of music whilst highlighting the issues faced every day by people with a learning disability - by supporting Little Noise, you really are changing lives."

Now in their ninth year, Mencap's Little Noise Sessions take world-class bands out of their comfort zone to present a rawer, purer sound meaning the crowd get to witness something very special each night.

Tickets are priced at £37.50, and go on sale at 9am on Friday 3rd October at https://www.mencap.org.uk/littlenoise.

There are 1.5 million people with a learning disability in the UK, who are among the most excluded and disadvantaged people in our society. Money raised at Mencap's Little Noise Sessions will go to Mencap arts awards projects to help people with a learning disability. Mencap directly supports people with a learning disability to live their lives as they choose and challenge prejudice.

This year's Mencap Little Noise Sessions explores the theme of the 'First Time', such as a first gig experience. For many this might be an embarrassing boyband or act they'd care to forget. Regardless, for most it's a milestone of growing up and part of being a music fan.

Many people with a learning disability have never been to a gig but by no means through a lack of interest. Those with learning disabilities often need more support than others when it comes to buying tickets or simple logistics of a late night gig. Without such support the alternative can often be staying at home and missing out.

Mencap's work gives those with a learning disability the chance to have brilliant first time experiences.

FUTURE GIGS