4:04pm Wednesday 4th August 2010
By Jack Royston
A CHARITY was left “devastated” after thieves stole a £200 banner advertising a fundraising concert by a Rolling Stones tribute act.
The 5m wide canvas had been outside Harrow Arts Centre, in Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, but was torn down last night, just 24 hours after it was put up, forcing organisers to cough up money for a replacement.
The gig is being held on Saturday, August 21, at 7.45pm, to raise funds for St Luke's Hospice and cash for the replacement would otherwise have gone to the charity.
Jayn Lee Miller, organiser of the gig, said: “We had a beautiful banner made that was put in yesterday. It was in situ less than 24 hours before it was stolen. It was a wacking great 20ft banner.
“I was in a state of shock when I found out. I couldn't believe it – who would steal something that was promoting an event for charity in aid of St Luke's Hospice?
“It's going to be very difficult to replace. It's £200 that could have gone to the charity.”
Pam Russell, director of fundraising and community relations at St Luke's, said: "It is really disappointing that vandals should steal a banner promoting a charity concert which will raise funds to provide free hospice care for people who are coping with advanced progressive illnesses.
"However Rollin Stoned are one of the best tribute bands in the UK and I am sure that it will be great evening despite the theft.
"St Luke’s receives less than 30 per cent of its funding from the NHS and relies on the generosity of the community to raise over £3m each year."
Ms Miller also fears the theft may harm the marketing campaign and therefore hit ticket sales for the gig, which will see the Rollin' Stoned impersonate the rock legends.
A photo of the real Mick Jagger and Keith Richards will be auctioned on the night and the money will go to St Luke's.
The group, which has won the praise of the original band and their family members, will perform a range of hits during the show, including Satisfaction, Sympathy for the Devil and You Can't Always Get What You Want.
Tickets to the gig cost £15 and can be ordered from the Harrow Arts Centre Box Office, on 0208 416 8989, or for group and family tickets contact Ms Miller on 0208 422 9308.
Police believe the theft took place between 5pm yesterday and 9am this morning.
Officers are appealing for anyone with information to call 0300 123 1212, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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