By day, Dr Richard Berman is a consultant at The Christie, one of Europe's leading cancer centres, based in South Manchester but it is by night that he gets to unveil his inner rock star.

The 36 year old from Hale said; "There are strict rules in my house as to when I can play!  But music will always be part of my life, even if it is a million miles away from the day job."

Specialising in pain and symptom control for patients with cancer, Richard has worked in medicine for 13 years.   The father of two to boys Charlie, aged seven and Ben, four, achieved his degree at University of London Charing Cross and Westminster Medical School in 1996.  By 2007 he was appointed consultant in palliative medicine offering both symptom control and psychological support to patients at any stage of illness - from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

Richard said; "I've always wanted to be a doctor.  Since being a child, I knew I wanted a career based on helping others.  Despite the long years of study to get where I am now, I wouldn't change a thing. I've learnt a lot about myself doing what I do and find it extremely rewarding."

And it is his family who have been long time patient supporters of Richard's passion for music.

Aged just 13 when his parents gave into his demands for a drum kit of his own, Richard has always had flair for music, picking up quickly what takes many years to perfect. 

As well as percussion, the talented performer is also practised in jazz piano.  He was even picked to perform live on Spanish TV at the age of 15 while on a family holiday.

"My brother and I were invited onto a chat show and played a 'boogie woogie' piano duet - the next day people in the streets in Spain asked for our autographs!"

"I guess I've had it easy in a way though as music seems to run in my family - my brother Steveand father Paul are also keen musicians."

And it is with an eclectic group of other professionals that Richard unleashes his musical alter ego.  His band of three years, made up of architects, recruitment consultants and lawyers, is now drawing the crowds at venues across Greater Manchester, such as Dukes 92 in the city centre.

The group, aptly named 'Inhale' as all members are local dads living in the Hale area of Greater Manchester, meet once a week on a Monday night at a rehearsal studio in Wythenshawe.  Popular hits such as 'Valerie,' 'In the midnight hour' and 'I'm a believer' form part of their repertoire and the six are inundated with requests to perform at parties and various social events.

Richard added; "There's myself on the drums, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass, keys and of course our singer.  They're all such huge talents and I'm proud to be performing alongside them.  We all met at a mutual friend's party, got chatting and before you know it 'Inhale' was formed!  We're proof that even if you chose to take one particular path in life, embark on a certain career, and succeed in one area - it doesn't mean that you have to forsake everything else.  Life's too short."

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