The event on Saturday 6th April is being organised by family and friends of Ben Bebbington who was killed in Shrewsbury last September. As well as paying tribute to Ben on what would have been his 44th birthday it is hoped it will raise awareness and funds for the Shrewsbury Ark, a charity that had supported Mr Bebbington in recent years.
Tim Compton from Shrewsbury Ark said: ”Both organisations offered to help us on the day, and as both support some of our clients at the Ark as well as many others Ben’s family wanted to make sure they had an opportunity to tell people about the great work they do””
The Street Pastors will be putting on day time patrols on for the event and the Shrewsbury Food Bank will be available to accept food donations that people might like to make.
Ian Horne, Shrewsbury Street Pastors said: “It will be a busy evening for us as it’s the first Saturday in the month, JLS are in town and lots of people will out enjoying the Big Busk. By putting patrols on throughout the day there will also be opportunity to ask about our work.”
Ian went on to say: “”I had met Ben on several occasions whilst out on patrol, usually playing his guitar near one of the town’s nightspots, I helped him to re-tune his guitar one evening and also lit his cigarette for him. I remember he was very appreciative of what we were doing on the streets. We are very happy to be part of this event and you never know I might even get my own guitar out!””
The Shrewsbury Food Bank will be in the Square and can accept any food donations that people might like to bring along but importantly they will be answering questions about the work they carry out supporting up to fifty families locally.
Peter Baker, Shrewsbury Food Bank said: “”Many people we talk to are surprised to learn that there are families locally who desperately need the service but there are and the number of people who need help is growing.””
The Food Bank has a issued a list of goods that they particularly need and its not just food these include; nappies, washing powder, toiletries and toilet rolls.
The day will involve music being performed in various locations around the town from 10am. Performances will cover a whole range of musical genres from opera and classical to contemporary and folk. All money raised on the day will go directly to the Shrewsbury Ark.
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