NEXT month’s Rock on the Rooftop in Newport promises to be the biggest yet, according to event organisers.
Celtic Manor will host the event, which is in its seventh year, to raise money for St Anne's Hospice and will feature pop and rock, blues, jazz and swing bands for the rooftop party.
Each year, the Celtic Manor Resort offers a rooftop terrace and a buffet banquet free of charge, meaning every penny goes to the hospice.
Tania (corr) Ansell, community and events fundraiser at St Anne’s Hospice, said: “I’ve always had an interest in fundraising and I am in a position to help. It’s great to be able to make a difference.”
Sarah Campbell-Horner, Arts Development Officer and event entertainment coordinator, said: "I got involved in the event after my grandmother was looked after at St Anne’s in the last days of her life.
"In the past I've had to plead with bands and performers to help out, but in recent years, bands volunteer their services quite freely, which suggests the event’s become quite prestigious.”
Big Mac's Wholly Soul Band from Newport will be headlining again this year, and the Bellagio Boys, Gin Palace featuring Becky Barnbrook, Brother Ray duo and Perfect Day Party Band, the Switchtones, Steve Doolan’s Trio and Kixx Dance are just some of the performers on show.
Kelvin Reddicliffe, manager at Timpsons in Newport, has contributed signed memorabilia for the event including a framed guitar scratch plate and snare drum skin signed by Kelly Jones of The Stereophonics, and signed green baize from snooker players at the 2013 Welsh Open.
He said: “I’m fortunate enough to know the right people, like Roger Broom, who helps get signatures on my behalf.
“A lot of my dear friends have been looked after by St Anne’s Hospice, which is what keeps me going.”
Miguel Santiago, director of the Priory restaurant in Caerleon, is a staunch supporter and volunteer fundraiser for the hospice. His own mother also received help from local hospice care.
Mr Santiago said: "I felt it was the right time to get involved in helping a local charity and it all came together nicely.
“You reach a stage in your life when you are able to help people and give something back. I’m at that stage now.
"We can cater for 350 ticket-holders with every penny going to the hospice which is a tribute not only to the hotel but also the excellent performers."
Rock on the Rooftop will be held on Sunday, September 22 and will begin at 1pm.
Full tickets cost £50 each, with half day and children’s tickets (from 5pm) available at £25. Tickets can be bought online at www.stdavidshospicecare.org and by telephone on 01633 851045.
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