A HEAVENLY evening is in store for music lovers when top performer Chris Helme plays at a York church - in aid of The Press's Guardian Angels appeal.

The former singer in million-selling band The Seahorses, will strap on his guitar for charity acoustic night Bridgejam at St Paul's Church, Holgate Road, which recently played host to Shed Seven.

Chris was the singer in the group led by Stone Roses guitarist John Squire in the late 90s before forming The Yards and becoming an acoustic performer in his own right.

St Paul's is transformed into a top music venue for Bridgejam, which raises money for local good causes.

Chris, 36, told The Press he was passionate about our appeal because he was the parent of a young son.

"Guardian Angels is a very worthy cause," he said.

"I think it's a travesty that if anything serious goes wrong with your child you have to travel to Leeds or even further. We've got a massive hospital in York which should be resourced properly.

"I'm really looking to playing Bridgejam. I heard really good reports when the Sheds performed there last time.

"We (The Yards) played in a church once before in the Minster and I was on my best behaviour. We were going to do another show there again last year but it fell through, so it's great we now get the chance at St Paul's. It should be a top night."

Guardian Angels aims to pay for a new high-dependency unit in the children's ward at York Hospital.

Organiser Matt Woodcock, who works at St Paul's, said: "The Sheds went down a storm at the last Bridgejam, which was a sell-out, and I'm sure this will be just as good. Chris Helme is a gifted singer-songwriter and we are privileged to have him headlining.

"We also want to do our bit to help the Guardian Angels appeal reach its target."

Chris will perform several hits from his Seahorses days as well as tracks from his current band and solo material.

He will be joined on stage by The Yards' guitarist Chris Farrell and former Seahorses bass player Stu Fletcher, who is also in Rick Witter's new outfit, The Dukes.

Chris will be supported at Bridgejam by top local acoustic performer Andy Stones and female duo Two, made up of Sharon Winfield and Helen Turner.

Tickets for the event, which takes place on Thursday, February 21,with doors opening at 7.45pm, must be bought in advance.

To obtain a ticket, phone Matt Woodcock on 01904 658820 or email him at matt.woodcock@stpaulsyork.org.uk


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