Portsmouth veteran fundraising for Royal British Legion with charity gig in Southsea this weekend

A veteran has organised a charity music event in Portsmouth this weekend - and wants to see as many friendly faces as possible.

Local veteran Andrew Hollins is organising a charity music gig this Saturday (May 9) to raise money for homeless veterans and give back to the organisation that supported him after his military career was cut short.

Mr Hollins, a former Royal Engineer, broke his back while serving on Operation Telic in Iraq in 2003 and was later medically discharged from the Army. After receiving support from the Royal British Legion, he decided he wanted to help other former servicemen and women facing hardship.

Now, after arranging the event himself, he is preparing for a full day of live entertainment at the Rifle Club in Goldsmih Avenue, Southsea, with all proceeds going to the Royal British Legion. Island City will be headlining the gig, affectionately titled Vocal For Veterans.

“I got help from the British Legion, so I wanted to give something back,” he said. “I’ve arranged this on my own, so I’m proper stressed out, but I’m looking forward to it.”

The charity gig will feature a line-up of local acts, all of whom have volunteered their time to support the cause.

Mr Hollins said this year’s event is specifically focused on helping homeless veterans.

“I am focusing on homeless veterans for this gig, not the mental health side of it,” he said. “I’m hoping to do another next year and focus on that then.”

Doors open at 2.30pm and the event will run until 11.30pm. Advance tickets cost £10 plus a £1 booking fee, while entry on the door will be £12.

All funds raised will go to the Royal British Legion. To book tickets, follow this link to the event website.