Singers, dancers actors and musicians from the Malmesbury area are coming together at the weekend for a special fundraiser.

The Concert for Ukraine is taking place on Saturday afternoon at Malmesbury Abbey. 

Among the performers are Athelstan Players, members of Malmesbury Concert Band, Minety Dance, Revolution Performing Arts, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Choir and The Minuettes. There will also be a special performance by guests from Ukraine. 

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Minety Dance Theatre SchoolMinety Dance Theatre School

The idea is the brainchild of teachers Debbie Cambray-Smith and Sally l'Anson. 

"It has been very rewarding to organise as everyone has been so keen to take part, whether performing or supporting, and are giving their time and talent for free," said Debbie.

"It promises to be a wonderful afternoon of music, dance and drama."

The duo are working closely with the Malmesbury Stands with Ukraine Steering Group convened by the town's deputy mayor and Wiltshire councillor, Gavin Grant.

'Our hearts go out to them'

"Malmesbury Abbey has hosted some stunning events, but none will be more important than this one," said Cllr Grant. 

"I congratulate Debbie and Sally for organising this concert in record time! They and their talented local performers and technicians have done an amazing job to deliver something truly unforgettable.

"Our amazing town has already raised more than £12,000 to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, including a magnificent £1,000 from a cake sale in the Market Cross.

"Clearly there is much more help needed and this Concert for Ukraine is the town’s next contribution to that effort. I hope the Abbey will be packed and that those who cannot go are able to contribute to the Just Giving page.

"I hope this very special event will also lift the spirits of Ukrainian families arriving into our communities. 

"Our hearts go out to them and it is very important from the youngest to the oldest, that our guests know that in these dark days for their homeland, they are not alone and that so many local people are doing everything they can to ensure that Malmesbury stands with Ukraine."

READ MORE: Outpouring of support for Ukraine from Malmesbury community

The concert starts at 3pm. There is no set admission charge, but donations can be made on the door or via justgiving.com/crowdfunding/malmesburyukraineconcert.

All proceeds will go to purchasing and delivering protective equipment to support medical and other emergency teams working on the frontline to help Ukrainian civilians under fire.