A benefit concert in Coventry has raised more than £8,000 for a Palestinian charity

A BENEFIT concert held in Coventry successfully raised more than £8,000 for Palestinian Healthcare, a UK charity dedicated to supporting the health and dignity of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

The ‘Gig for Gaza’ – organized by Coventry South MP Zarah Sultana in conjunction with the West Midlands Fire Brigades Union – took place on Saturday 27 April at LTB Showrooms, a community arts space in the former Litten Tree pub in the city centre. Coventry.

The event included music, poetry readings and speeches, attracting over 200 attendees and generating a confirmed total of £8,095.34 in donations.

West Midlands folk singer Jess Silk, singer-songwriter Grace Petrie and two-time MOBO and Mercury Music Award winner Soweto Kinch performed at the concert.

Local poet Loraine Masiya Mponela gave a reading and speeches were given by Zarah Sultana and FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack.

Zarah Sultana, who has now raised over £20,000 for various charities since becoming an MP, expressed her gratitude and highlighted the importance of the event.

“Coventry’s tradition as a city of peace and reconciliation was proudly displayed at this concert for Gaza, with an incredible £8,000 raised for medical aid for the Palestinians.

“This money will be used to provide vital medical equipment, emergency food and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza.”

Billy Holland, Regional Secretary of the West Midlands Firefighters Union, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity shown by fellow trade unionists and the general public in support of a charity working to alleviate suffering in Gaza.

“We are proud that our members have been able to contribute in the best possible way by joining with Zarah to raise vital medical aid money for Palestinians who are providing aid and assistance on the ground right now.”