A former world champion motorcyclist will swap his bike for a mic when he performs live in Norwich in June.

James Toseland – twice winner of the Superbike World Championship – will perform alongside rising stars The Rainband in tribute to a former rival killed in a racing accident last year.

The gig will be held at Epic Studios in Magdalen Street in Norwich, on June 14, and will also feature Bill Downs, who appeared on the BBC talent show The Voice earlier this year, and Norwich band Chasing Tigers.

The night will feature the first public performance of Rise Again, a track written by The Rainband in memory of Marco Simoncelli, who died in a crash during a race in October 2011.

Toseland will take to the stage to perform the track with the band, and proceeds from the single's sale will go to the Marco Simoncelli Foundation, which is funding a hospital for people with disabilities.

Epic's live streaming channel will also broadcast the gig online.

During his career, Toseland juggled his passions for music and racing, and even performed live at the Sports Personality of the Year ceremony. Since retiring through injury last year he has dedicated himself to music and will release an album with his band Crash later this year.

The Rainband won the Rising Stars award at the 2012 Brit Awards, and have already supported Simple Minds, The Charlatans and Ocean Colour Scene on tour.

Tickets are �5 in advance from www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk or on 01603 508050.

Are you planning an event in Norwich? Call reporter Mark Shields on 01603 772423.