Anonymous £20,000 gift to charity

The organisation, which gives interactive musical performances in care homes and day centres, launched its 100,000 "High Notes" appeal at Sheffield United's Bramall Lane ground in September.

As a result of the publicity surrounding that event, which included an appearance from opera singer Lesley Garrett, a secret supporter has now stepped forward with a 20,000 donation.

Lord Chord chief executive Helena Muller said: "It was wonderful to know that somebody felt as passionately as we do that music is the key which opens the door behind which a frightened, intimidated and humiliated person hides. In the absence of a cure or any effective treatment, music at times is the only way to reach people with dementia. If only there were more people like our anonymous donor, Lost Chord could benefit the life of every person with dementia in the country."

Ms Muller said the donation would be used to provide more than 150 musical sessions, helping upwards of 2,250 people.