Alan Knight inspired charity event Party on the Pier to take place at The Gaiety this weekend in aid of Rowans Hospice
20 local acts give up their time for charity
An event organiser has been “overwhelmed” by the response of local Portsmouth music acts who have agreed to perform at a charity day.
Malcolm Drew will be hosting the Party on the Pier on Sunday, September 27 between 2pm and 9pm with the likes of Amba Tremain, Marley Blandford, The Kojaks and Steve Kinglsey giving up their time to raise money for the Rowan’s Hospice.
The idea for the event was sparked by a conversation with Pompey legend Alan Knight. Malcolm, who is well-known in the city for his charity work, had just arranged a charity match at Fratton Park raising money for multiple prostate cancer causes.
Alan suggested an event in aid of the Rowans Hospice, with Malcom setting off to see what he could do. This Sunday 20 music acts will be performing at The Gaiety on South Parade Pier as the culmination of that idea comes to fruition, just over two weeks after the Pompey hero passed away.
Malcolm said: “Alan was the inspiration for the charity match I did at Fratton Park last year for prostate cancer. Then at a later date I was talking with him and Mark Trapani, who both have supported the Rowans Hospice, and they mentioned it would be great to do something for them in the future. I said I would see what I could do but it was largely his suggestion.
“I spoke to Grant who runs The Gaiety and they said I could have the venue for free. That was the basis of it and I started speaking to local acts and I was overwhelmed with the support I got. Virtually everyone said they would come along so we have 20 acts booked, all of whom are working for nothing. The support we have had is incredible.”
As well as musical performances, the event will also be packed full of family entertainment with activities such as balloon models and face painting.
Tickets are £10 with kids going for free, although a small donation would be welcome, and can be purchased at https://book.events/partyonthepier/2026-09-27/46902.