SINGER songwriter Robb Johnson is next month playing a free gig in Stroud as part of the national ‘We Shall Overcome’ event.

WSO is a community effort led by musicians and music promoters who want to do something practical to help people who are being hit hard by homelessness and poverty.

While most of the 200 plus WSO gigs are being held during the week of October 3 to 9, Stroud has received special dispensation to have the gig a week later – on October 16.

This will be held at the Crown and Sceptre on Horns Road from 8pm – to accommodate the busy touring schedule of the renowned protest singer.

As well as entertaining people, the aim of the WSO movement also highlights the human cost to the politics of austerity and cuts to public services.

Several thousand musicians will perform across the UK as audiences are encouraged to bring food for foodbanks or make donations to homelessness and other projects.

Gig promoter Tim Lezard said “We Shall Overcome is part of an anti-austerity movement but it is also very much pro-community.

“We wanted to do our bit here in Stroud to show solidarity with others around the country and to be part of something bigger all across the UK.”

The gig is free, with punters being encouraged to donate at least £5 to Stroud Furniture Bank.

Will Mansell from Stroud Furniture Bank said: "Furniture Bank is all about local communities working together in solidarity to help people overcome the basic barriers to living well.

“It is so great to be part of this event and we can't wait to be involved. Small, determined groups in the community have the potential to change lives and this is a great example if this."

The gig is being supported by Unite the union, for whom Jo Golazka said: “We’re proud to support such an important cause.

“Highlighting injustices and campaigning against the ongoing struggles that our communities face daily as a result of the Tories’ austerity measures is central to our work as trade unionists.

“We will continue to fight on behalf our communities and working people.”