A BENEFIT concert hosted by a historic town centre entertainment venue has raised thousands of pounds for those impacted by the attack on Ukraine.

Colchester Arts Centre, in Church Street, held a charity gig last Sunday in aid of the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal, generating a staggering £5,500 in the process.

More than 400 people attended the event, enjoying a myriad of performances which catered for all preferences throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

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The Variety Show, for example, hosted venue director Anthony Roberts and Liz Mullen, included magic, dance, poetry and ‘Name That Tune’ played on the accordion.

Later in the concert, the site staged a standing gig boasting a line-up of six fantastic bands, including She’s In Parties and headline act Pet Needs.

In a statement published by the latter group, a spokesman said: “Genuinely felt a little emotional on stage at Colchester Arts Centre

“We're so proud to be from this town. Massive love to everyone who made last night happen and everyone who came alone.”

Thanks to the artists generously donating their payment to the cause, the entire fundraising total will go towards providing vital aid to families who’ve fled Ukraine.

Emma Wallis, from Colchester Arts Centre, added: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and support of both the artists that performed and the audience.

“All the artists waived their fee for the event which meant that 100 per cent of the ticket price could go to the Red Cross.

“Our team of volunteers were amazing as always and we couldn’t have done it without them.

“It felt so good to be able to do something positive for such a desperate situation.”