Saxon frontman, Biff Byford's hearing loss story

Since forming Saxon in 1977, we have released a new album every 18 months and have no plans of slowing down. Performing at gigs, playing our new songs in front of crowds and hearing them sing along is one of the greatest feelings in the world. That’s why I knew I had to get my hearing tested.

I’ve been around high decibels and loud equipment for over 50 years. Back in the day at gigs, sound restrictions didn’t exist like they do now. Sometimes when performing we would put our heads right into the speakers and rock out.

My hearing problems were also affecting my personal life as well. Dinnertime with my family was especially hard. I found it difficult to keep up with conversation, so gradually after time I just stopped trying. I would sit there and become more detached. It was lonely at times.

I went to my local Hidden Hearing clinic (in York), where I had a hearing test. The hearing care expert Louise was great – very knowledgeable about frequencies and how music can damage the ears, so we were able to have a proper conversation. I knew I was in safe hands.

Since I was fitted with my hearing aids Oticon More, I have been very impressed, especially with the Bluetooth as I can stream music straight from device to ear.

Getting the aids is like turning back on the enjoyment button on life. I can hear things that I haven’t heard in a long time, like the certain notes of a guitar string. Instruments like bass guitar and drums no longer sound flat.  Another bonus is my tinnitus has got so much better, it’s nowhere near as invasive as before. The aids have really helped reduce the severity with that.

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