MUSICIAN Mark Bisset, dubbed the Spicy Piper has raised more than £100,000 for armed forces charities.

But it's not enough for him. He plans on doubling the figure over the next five years.

Reservist Mark, who is originally from Scotland but now lives in Swindon and is based at RAF Brize Norton, has raised a fortune by playing the bagpipes.

“I began about 14 years ago raising money for the charity Combat Stress at the Battle Proms, going around handing out leaflets and collecting money in the donations bucket," he said.

“I then decided to start playing the bagpipes at the event and when I was going around with the bucket afterwards it amazed me just how much people were donating.

“About five years ago I was approached by a reservist squadron at the proms and asked if I would be interested in joining. I thought it was a good idea as I wasn’t getting any younger and I was really inspired through the fundraising I’d done over the years to get involved."

Mark is a reservist for the 501 reservist squadron and works full time at RAF Brize Norton for the airfield mechanical transport squadron and loves it: “My father, Jimmy was part of the the RAF 1st City of Edinburgh Squadron way back in 1941, so he has really inspired me to do what I do."

Asked why he is called the Spicy Piper he explained: “The name came about because years ago I was called the ‘Red Hot Chilli Piper’ after the band but it then came to my attention that there was a group of pipers in Scotland with the same name.

“My wife suggested I change my name to Spicy Piper, which still in keeps with the ‘peppers’ theme”

Mark plans to continue raising cash with a target of another £100,000 by 2024 and hopes to raise awareness through the RAFBF Pipes and Drums group which he founded.

He said: “I’m currently averaging about £20,000 a year so I’ve set a target of £100,000 over the next five years, which would be amazing if it was reached.”

Mark has been given recognition for his work including a commendation in this year's Queens Honours, the Captain Robinson Memorial Award and also the Global Unsung Hero award by Forces TV.

Mark said the experience was very humbling and he hopes it will encourage others to get involved.

“My aim is to get other musicians and pipers inspired just like I was, to get out and fundraise for not just the armed forces, but other causes as well.”

Anyone who wants to get involved, donate or learn more can go to the PAFBF Pipes and Drums page on Facebook.