Arne Schmitt has upped the ante in the battle for people's loose change by taking to a resort's streets with a baby grand piano.

Each morning the German-born busker wheels the £3,000 Japanese K Kawai piano up a ramp and into the back of his large Mercedes estate.

He then travels the 20 miles from his flat in Hastings to Terminus Road in Eastbourne town centre, where he belts out up to 60 different hits by stars including Phil Collins and Elton John.

Bachelor Arne, 29, admits the baby grand piano is a step ahead from the banjos, flutes and guitars normally seen on the streets of Eastbourne but he says: "People love it."

He said: "The sound of a baby grand is much more soothing than a banjo.

"It's not very loud and I think it sounds much better when it has got the freedom of the outdoors."

The black piano, weighing about 350kg, has been mounted on its own mini stage with four wheels so Arne can cart it anywhere he wants.

A former girlfriend bought the piano for him four years ago and since then it has travelled with him in the back of his car to several countries.

He has visited Norway and his homeland of Germany where he was often asked to perform at weddings and restaurants.

However, since arriving in England earlier this year he has fallen in love with the country and hopes to bring his music to other towns and cities in Sussex, including Brighton.

He said: "I love everything about England, especially the music.

"I think Rod Stewart, Elton John and Phil Collins are wonderful.

"Plus, the English are much better tippers.

"When the weather is good I can sometimes make about £30 a day, whereas in Germany I normally don't even get half that."

Arne, who lives in Braybrooke Terrace, Hastings, taught himself how to play the piano after being inspired by people like Elton John at the age of 11.

As well as the piano, he is also an accomplished player of the trumpet and accordion, although he says they are unlikely to make an appearance on the streets of Eastbourne.

He said: "That's probably taking it a bit too far.

"Let's just stick with the piano. It's a bit more civilised."

Shopper Barry Hook, 32, said: "I think it's great. It's certainly a lot better than the other rubbish you get to hear along this part.

"Just as long as he steers clear of that garage music rubbish, he'll be alright."