Billy Bragg was at Mountjoy prison in Dublin earlier today to hand over guitars belonging to the late Philip Chevron to inmates as part of the Jail Guitar Doors initiative.

It was one of Philip's final wishes that some of his favourite guitars would be donated for the benefit of music students serving time, and he approached Bragg to ensure that wish came to pass.

The very special event, took place just over a year after Philip's death, was attended by his sister Deborah Blacoe who paid a warm and moving tribute to her 'musician and scholar' brother.

Jail Guitar Doors - founded by Bragg - is an independent initiative with the aim of providing musical equipment for the use of inmates serving time in prisons and funding individual projects such as recording sessions in prisons and for former inmates.

Bragg - addressed inmates at today's event saying "This instrument is a key that can help you change your life.  I've been around the world – as was Philip - because of the doors that this instrument opens.  When we give these guitars here today, they are not here as a gift. They really are a challenge."

Tom was at Mountjoy reporting on this very special event earlier today. You can listen back to his report using the link below:

Tom also had a chat with Billy himself to discuss the initiative. You can listen back to that interview using the link provided:

Picture credit Aidan Oliver Photography