A school teacher who spent time during lockdown writing new songs has agreed a contract with a record company to release them.

Mike Ryan, who lives in Higher Bebington and teaches at Birkenhead School, has a musical past.

Originally from New Ferry, he was the lead singer and guitarist of former Wirral band Harrison Drive, who enjoyed moderate success in the 2000s.

Mike told the Globe: "I have been teaching on site and remotely during this period as well as homeschooling my three children. However, once the kids are in bed and the school work is done, I have been writing and recording my own songs in my garage.

Wirral Globe: Mike (second from left) in the band Harrison DriveMike (second from left) in the band Harrison Drive

"Fatherhood and my teaching career meant I had to give up the rock'n'roll dream, but being housebound over the last few months gave me the opportunity to revive my passion for songwriting.

"I shared my new demos with an independent record label called Meadows Records in Liverpool and I have been offered a contract to release these new songs.

"I am due to record a single with the legend that is Bill Ryder-Jones (formerly of The Coral) next month at his Yawn Studios in West Kirby.

"It's all very exciting and has caught me completely by surprise."

Have you got a talent that you have been putting to good use during lockdown?

When not tell us all about it by sharing your photos and videos?

Send an email to: richard.garnett@newsquest.co.uk