Bands aid children who lost their mum

Musicians and singers are banding together to raise money for children who lost their mother to heart failure.

A family-friendly event featuring live music, stalls, hog roast and children’s entertainment will be held at the Britannia Inn, Brampton, on Saturday, July 12.

The day will be headlined by indie/rock band Crackin’ Right Foot, whose drummer Baz Rayner has organised the day in memory of his sister.

Sonia Rayner, 33, of Brampton, died in January following a severe viral infection.

She left behind son Jack, 15, and daughters Rubi-Grace, 4, and India-Mae, 3.

Baz, right, said: “The majority of Sonia’s adult life was spent caring for her children, as she was an extremely devoted mother.

“This included the extra care required by Jack, who suffers from a rare and severe form of Brittle Asthma; necessitating constant medical treatment and numerous, often long periods of hospitalisation.

“As a consequence Sonia was never able to undertake any long term or full time employment.

“In order to help ensure that Jack and his sisters continue to receive the care they require, a discretionary trust has been established in Sonia’s name. The trust is focused on supporting the children’s development by providing the extra things they may need as they grow, such as educational fees, equipment and facilities.”

Sonia’s son raised £1600 for the trust on a 10k walk around the key areas where his mum enjoyed spending time.

The Brampton community has rallied to the children’s aid, with a zumbathon at Brookfield School raising over £4,000 and a race night at The Barrel pub bringing in £800.

Entertainers lined up for Saturday’s fundraiser, which starts at midday, include The Buddies, Hush, Pegsun, The Nutty Boys, She Said, Creakin’ Limb, Craig James and Ian Jones, Dan Aspinall and DFacto.