MORE than 140 musical acts will fill the streets of York this weekend to raise money for a local charity.

Sing For SASH will see buskers and musicians spread the word of Safe And Sound Homes, which works to prevent young homelessness among the young around the city.

A preview of the concerts took place last week with an evening of performances at the Coppergate Centre. From 10am on Saturday, each act will perform a 30-minute set at the centre and St Michael le Belfrey in High Petergate, with both locations granting special permission for buskers to perform there.

There will also be a free gig at the Golden Fleece from 9pm with acts including Timber Wolf, Harrison Rimmer, The Barberellas, Nathan O’Grady, The Lucy Mclean Pop Choir, Chris Helme and many others.

Emma Butler, community fundraiser at SASH, said the charity helps about 300 people aged between 16 and 25 every year by offering them an emergency place to stay, and long-term safe places for young people at risk.

Emma said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and enthusiasm of all the local musicians and businesses for this event. We’re delighted at the response and are looking forward to a fantastic day of music in York to support our work.”

A spokesman for The Barberellas said: “We’re honoured to have the chance to help SASH in a small way in its work.

“We feel SASH helps homeless young people and those at risk of homelessness in a very targeted way. Hopefully lots of people will come out to support the vast range of local musicians performing today.”

The cost of equipment hire has been donated to the charity from TSYS and a crowdfunding appeal, which is still open.

Acts will be given free refreshments donated by local businesses including Red Cow Music, The York Roast Co, Music Room and others.

To find out more, go to sash-uk.co.uk or to donate go to
crowdfunder.co.uk/sing-for-sash-equipment-hire/