A GUITARIST who has battled with Crohn's disease for more than 20 years is holding an awareness concert for his 40th birthday.

Chris Walton is holding The UK Guitar Expo 2018 at Burnley Mechanics Theatre in May to raise funds Crohn's & Colitis UK.

The 39-year-old's condition affects more than 100,000 people in the UK.

Mr Walton, who conducts demo work for international guitar companies based in the UK, has invited musicians from across the country to take part in his event.

Mr Walton said: "I thought instead of having a traditional part I would try and help support other people who have this disease and help spread the word about it.

"It's a very fatiguing disease and it has a major impact on my day to day life.

"It took me a while to get the right treatment and because I have had it for so long it's now part of my day to day routine."

Crohn's disease is a long-term condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive system.

It can affect any area of the system but it is most commonly found in the small intestine.

Mr Walton added: "It's not something I tell many people about.

"Not a lot of people know what it is or really understand, which is exactly why this sort of event will help change that."

The event is set to take place at Burnley Mechanics Theatre on Saturday, May 26.