Robert Plant in surprise visit to Kidderminster College arts festival

The former Led Zeppelin frontman was at a concert for autistic performers organised by music student Jordan Statham.

The talented 20-year-old, who attends Glasshouse College, in Amblecote, Stourbridge, and Kidderminster College, was treated to a private pep talk from the musician, lasting well over an hour. Later the veteran introduced Jordan on stage to a packed auditorium of 240 people as a 'very special guitarist.'

The West Bromwich-born blues man, who is briefly back in the Midlands during a break in his current world tour, heard about Jordan by friend and Kidderminster College lecturer Kevyn Gammond, who played with Plant in the original Band of Joy.

"I was told about Jordan's ambition and his unique achievement in producing a music showcase like this. I think it is great that he is able to let go and express himself in public."

He said it was something every performer, starting out, had to face. "I was the same person as Jordan is now, sadly too many years ago. I've tried to advise him as he goes out into the circus that is the world."

Plant is a patron of MAS Records, the record label based at Kidderminster College which aims to help talented up-and-coming musicians.

Jordan, of High Street, Stourbridge, staged Saturday's gig to showcase the talents of people like himself with learning disabilities.

He held auditions and rehearsals for the sold-out concert at Glasshouse Arts Centre, with performers travelling from across the UK to take part.

"I want people to see that having a disability doesn't stop you from achieving your hopes and dreams."

Of Plant, he said: "He was full of enthusiasm, really motivating. He talked to me about his past."