KT Tunstall Backs Charity Campaign

Article By Kate Lahive of The Star - www.thestar.co.uk

MUSIC fans are being urged to be like bands on stage and pack a pair of earplugs, by singer KT Tunstall, ambassador for RNID's Don't Lose the Music campaign.

With PA systems around festival stages reaching levels in excess of 110dB - the equivalent of an aircraft taking off - the charity campaign warns that without protection two or three days of noise exposure at these levels could put music fans' hearinADVERTISEMENTg at risk.

KT Tunstall, said: "Festivals are a huge highlight of my year and I love a good rock out or a boogie in the dance tent, but I've become aware of the danger of damaging your hearing through standing too close to the speakers... make sure you have a pair of earplugs. Love your ears!"

Run by RNID, the charity representing the nine million deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the UK, Don't Lose the Music aims to increase awareness among music fans about the dangers of over exposure to loud music.

The charity recommends other simple steps like standing away from the PA and taking regular breaks from the loudest areas to protect hearing during festivals.

Emma Harrison, head of campaigns at RNID, said: "A massive 90 per cent of people have experienced the first signs of hearing damage after a night out listening to loud music. Music fans should still enjoy festivals, gigs and clubs but we hope information from Don't Lose the Music will allow them to make an informed choice. You wouldn't go without your wellies now would you?"