Andover Events Community Local News

Banding Together for a Cause – Music Charity Gig For Countess Of Brecknock Hospice

In the heart of Andover, music enthusiasts and supporters alike are gearing up for a night that promises not only fantastic tunes but also an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

On Saturday, March 30th, 2024, The Wolversdene Club Hayward Suite will be buzzing with excitement as musicians from various bands come together to raise funds for The Countess of Brecknock Hospice in aid of Ohms Law band member, Chris.

The event, organised by Chris’s bandmates, friends, and family, is a testament to the love and admiration he has garnered throughout his musical journey. Chris, known for his infectious energy as the frontman of Ohms Law, has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, leaving those who know him heartbroken and eager to lend their support in any way possible.

Dave Hancock, bassist of Ohms Law and one of Chris’s closest friends, spearheaded the initiative. Joined by Brad Buckwell, drummer of Ohms Law, and Brad’s parents, Alan and Jacqui, they rallied a line-up of talented acts including One in the Chamber, Rewind Forward, 303, Covergirlz, Georgie Amelia, Blonde Faith, and The Cover Ups. Despite their busy schedules, all artists generously agreed to perform for free, emphasising their dedication to the cause.

Chris, reflecting on the upcoming event, expressed his gratitude towards everyone involved. He shared, “Dave, Brad, Alan, and Jacqui have done incredible work in their own time to plan and organise this event. I’m so grateful to them and all the wonderful musicians who have agreed to perform of which there are too many to list but are fully detailed on the poster.

My eldest son, Ryan also managed to get Wolversdene Club and Hayward Suite for free. So huge thanks to him and the club for facilitating a location for this great event”.

The night promises an eclectic selection of tunes, starting with Rewind Forward and the dynamic Covergirlz, followed by Georgie Amelia, who has been a steadfast supporter of the band. The line-up continues with 303, Chris’s previous main band, featuring a special set with his son, Aaron, stepping in for a handful of songs. The grand finale will be a captivating performance by Ohms Law, with Chris Campbell from Blonde Faith and James and Ian from One in the Chamber covering Chris’s parts.

Reflecting on his choice of charity, Chris spoke highly of The Countess of Brecknock Hospice, emphasising the invaluable support they have provided to him and his family during his battle with cancer. Chris told us “They do amazing work, and have taken so much of the stress and worry from us as a family by always being at the end of the phone 24/7, coming out to visit me to check I’m OK, helping work out medication plans, and I even have a room there ready which I am free to use any time in case I get rough and it gets a bit difficult for my family to care for me, or even if they just need a break”.

“This is our second encounter with the Countess of Brecknock in the last 12 months, as my Dad sadly passed away from Cancer back in July and they were similarly amazing with him, especially in his final weeks, as his disease progressed much quicker than mine is, and they helped immensely with his care, medication and being a support to my Mom who was caring for him. Not just anyone can work at a place like that, you have to be a special kind of person and everyone we have encountered there falls under that.”

The Countess of Brecknock Hospice offers respite and palliative care to adults suffering from life-limiting illnesses, providing comfort and support not only to patients but also to their families, friends, and caregivers. Their dedication to ensuring the highest standard of care is evident, making them a vital resource for the community.

For those unable to attend the gig, there are still opportunities to contribute. Chris encouraged supporters to donate to the JustGiving page, accessible via QR codes on event posters or through the Ohms Law Facebook page.

The event at The Hayward suite has a maximum capacity of 120 and if you are wanting to go, the organisers would like you to respond to the Facebook Event and hit going if you are just so they know what numbers to expect on the night, with 60 already confirming their attendance.

As the community rallies behind Chris and The Countess of Brecknock Hospice, this charity gig serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of music and collective support in times of need. Join us for a night of music, camaraderie, and philanthropy as we come together to make a difference.