Fine music will benefit charity (From Stroud News and Journal)

Fine music will benefit charity

THE David Russell anniversary concert, raising funds for the Gloucestershire Aids Trust and the Sue Ryder Home at Leckhampton, returns to Stroud's Subscription Rooms this weekend with a smorgasbord of fine music from Souled and Healed, SuperJuice and many more.

Nine years ago Danny & Katie McCue created Stroud HIV & AIDS Benefit and organised the first concert in the Sub Rooms. "We wanted to bring together local musicians, dancers, actors and other performers to raise awareness about HIV & AIDS," said Danny.

"We wanted to contribute in creating a thriving community spirit and to raise money for the two registered charities."

So far Danny and Katie have organised a concert every year around the date of the anniversary of David Russell's death. "On average over £600 is given to the charities each year," said Katie.

"The services of the organisers and the performers are contributed free of charge and to make the concert as accessible as possible ticket prices are kept as low as possible (£8/£4)."

Co-organiser Danny added: "We are grateful to the volunteers, the performers and the hundreds of people who attend the event. I find it really sad that HIV & AIDS is still on the increase worldwide."

This year's event is at the Subscription Rooms on Saturday, November 26 from 7.30pm. It will be compered by poets Denis Gould and Stuart Butler and features music from The Avatars, Popgang, SuperJuice, Eliza Tale, Souled & Healed and Ruth's Curtain. Tickets are £8 or £4 from the box office or on the door.