FLEECE GIG TO ROCK FOR HOSPICE

Some of the region's hottest bands are preparing to help raise funds for St Peter's Hospice by playing a gig at the renowned Fleece on St Thomas Street in Bristol as part of the charity's 'Party for Pete' initiative.

Taking place on the 1 September the 'Gig for Pete's Sake' includes Last Night's Victory, The Longest Johns and most notably Erica who are currently being promoted by the ex-tour manager of Oasis!

Other bands include The Travis Waltons, The Vergin Sunset, The Cliché Good, Pen Pang and Sons of Sunday.

The driving force behind the show is Bedminster resident Sarah Smither who is organising the night of live music in memory of her husband James (33) who passed away in March following a fierce battle with bowel cancer.

She is raising funds for the charity which provided James, Sarah and their families with what she describes as 'the most unbelievable care and support'.

Sarah said: "We felt privileged to be able to use such a wonderful place. It almost felt like a second home and the staff were not only professional and compassionate but had a brilliant sense of humour which really helped the whole family through what was a very traumatic time.

"James and I loved live music and visited The Fleece often to catch the latest bands. It seems appropriate that we should hold a gig at arguably Bristol's best known live music venue in memory of James and to raise funds for the hospice.

"While James was still alive we agreed we'd do everything we could to raise as much money as possible for St Peter's Hospice. This gig is one of many events I've been organising since James passed away and there will be more to follow. I now hope we get a sell-out crowd to see some amazing bands for a great cause. I'd also like to thank Chris Sharp at The Fleece for helping arrange what's going to be an awesome night."

Other events Sarah is already organising include a 'Club for Pete's Sake' on Saturday 29 September.  Starting 11pm at The Fleece this will feature some of the city's best up-and-coming DJs and will be the 'after show party' to mark the end of the hospice's month long campaign.

The overall 'Party for Pete's Sake' initiative is a city-wide campaign for St Peter's Hospice that encourages people to don their hats and host a party to raise money for the cause.

The party can be anything from a garden party or a quiz night to a tea party or a 70's disco and the charity is encouraging individuals as well as schools, offices, groups and clubs to get into the spirit.

Petra Vesela, community fundraiser from St Peter's Hospice said: "Hearing about Sarah and her plans to raise funds for the charity is truly inspirational and we hope the people of Bristol go along to the show.

"Party for Pete is a really fun way of raising money as you can plan any party on any theme you like rather than have to fit in with our arrangements! You could hold a classy cocktail party, an adults' fancy dress party or a children's party - it's up to you. All we ask is that partygoers make their donations to the charity."

Services at St Peter's Hospice are provided free of charge but the NHS contribute just 23% of the £6.5 million needed to run the hospice yearly, meaning support from the public is essential.

Last year the hospice cared for 2,675 patients and supported over 6,000 family members including children.

If you would like to hold a 'Party for Pete', please contact the fundraising office on 0117 9159300 for a registration form, email petra.vesela@stpetershospice.org.uk or register online at www.stpetershospice.org.uk.

For tickets to the 'Gig For Pete's Sake' please call 0117 929 9008 or visit www.thefleece.co.uk