Taxal-based charity organiser Simon Hawthorne is putting on a nostalgic evening of Christian rock in October to raise money for the Dalit people of India.  The Bill Mason Band – described as ‘one of the seminal acts in early British Christian rock’ – tops the bill in Wythenshawe Forum, Manchester, on Friday 21 October.

Simon and his wife Julia set up Life Association to help poor people whose daily lives echo the characters in Slumdog Millionaires.  Craftwork which the Dalit people make, especially candles, are sold to supporters of Life in this country.

Rock for charity: Simon and Julia Hawthorne

Simon is a one-time guitarist with the Bill Mason Band.  Bill himself is flying in from the US to play in the concert.  Another group of rock musicians, After the Fire, and local singer Hannah Atkins, will also make appearances. 

Booking is by donation only (the minimum suggested is £10.)  Information from www.lifeassociation.co,uk or www.dalit.co,uk  or phone 01663 734 374.