HE MIGHT get recognised in the street but not for being a rock star – yet. Daniel Wakeford was a key fixture on a few episodes of The Undateables, a TV programme geared towards pairing up people with disabilities and learning difficulties.

Living with autism, he longed for romance and was a significant enough catch to secure a few dates on the show.

Wakeford tells The Guide: “I really enjoyed it... some people recognise me now. I like that. I like signing autographs and having my picture taken.”

On the autistic spectrum, Wakeford has struggled with speech and comprehending others for most of his life. But, having started writing songs seven years ago, music has opened a door for him.

Now the 28-year-old from Brighton, who has written about loneliness and love for his family, is out on tour for the first time.

At the time of writing, Wakeford says: “I’ve been on a tour to Bradford and to Todmorden and I’m looking forward to Salford.

“I am very excited for the tour and meeting new people. I am looking forward to performing at the Green Door Store – it’s going to be a Rock House Daniel Wakeford Special.”

The tour celebrates his debut album, Songs Of Gigs, which has been released through Carousel, a learning disability arts organisation that supports him as an artist.

Alongside this Wakeford has teamed up with Constant Flux and Rock House, with funding from Arts Council England, to put together the tour to promote his album.

Wakeford says: “My favourite bands are Abba, Bucks Fizz, Queen, S Club 7 and One Direction. I like [Australian rock duo] Air Supply, you know, [their song] All Out Of Love.”

His appearance on The Undateables gained him a cult following with DJ Marc Riley at BBC 6music calling Wakeford “a legend and an inspiration”.

Working alongside musician Tom Cook, Wakeford has amassed a back catalogue of 60 songs, ten of which were taken to Metway Studios in Brighton and re-recorded to create his first proper album.

He has performed at the European Song Festival, which shines a light on music made by people with learning difficulties.

His efforts have led to a slot at the Together The People festival in September, on the bill with Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys.

Wakeford says: “I can’t wait to perform at the festival. Hopefully I will meet Brian Wilson. It’s very exciting indeed.”

To listen to his music, visit danielwakeford.bandcamp.com.

Daniel Wakeford, Green Door Store, Trafalgar Arches, Brighton, Tuesday, July 19, starts 7.30pm, £3 on the door, carers donation, therockhousebrighton.blogspot.co.uk. Wakeford also performs at the Observer Building in Cambridge Road, Hastings, on July 21