Forty years ago, Cheltenham responded to the spirit of Live Aid with a remarkable local festival that showcased the town’s unity and compassion.
In just five whirlwind weeks, a dedicated group of volunteers transformed a casual chat in a bistro into a full-day festival at Cox’s Meadow. Without any official support or budget, their determination sparked a movement that raised over £16,000 for famine relief and left a lasting legacy of pride.
This year, in 2025, Cheltenham is set to celebrate that extraordinary achievement once again.
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On Tuesday, September 30, all who were part of the original event—organisers, volunteers, performers, and attendees—are invited to The Bayshill, St Georges Place, Cheltenham, for an informal anniversary gathering. It’s a chance to share photos, reminisce stories, and raise a toast to a defining moment when the town came together with one purpose.
Jackie Alder, one of the original organisers, recalls the inspiration behind it all: “Bob Geldof and Live Aid motivated us deeply. Just days after our initial bucket collection, local musicians and professionals met to plan our own benefit concert. Soon, it evolved into a full family-friendly festival.”
Operating with limited resources, the team relied heavily on community generosity. Cliff Lane, a local gallery owner, offered his premises as their headquarters, complete with a phone line. Another business generously provided start-up funds. The total event costs were just £1,588—leaving a substantial £16,200 to donate to the Band Aid Trust.
“The local press helped spread the word, and soon our base was a hub for people offering stages, equipment, and their time,” Jackie says. “Volunteers were the heart of the entire effort.”
The festival drew around 5,000 attendees, from families to music enthusiasts. The headline performers, including the popular ska-pop band Amazulu, played to an enthusiastic crowd. Alongside the music were stalls and entertainment, creating a vibrant summer festival atmosphere.
There were challenges, too. When the stage needed extra help to set up the lighting gantry, the local fire brigade stepped in to lend a hand—an iconic “Local Aid” moment remembered fondly.
When the event concluded, organisers were thrilled to present a cheque for £16,200 to Steve Winwood, who accepted it on behalf of the Band Aid Trust.
“We never expected recognition,” Jackie reflects. “Everyone was contributing to the cause in their own way back then. But we were deeply proud.”
More than the funds raised, Local Aid symbolised community strength. “The event showed just how much good people living here could achieve together,” Jackie says.
After the festival, life returned to normal. Yet the pride and impact endured. “I felt privileged to be part of such a selfless, ego-free group,” Jackie remembers. “It was an unforgettable experience.”
One cherished memento is a collection of candid photographs taken by a volunteer photographer, capturing genuine moments from the day—long before smartphones existed. These images are now part of a precious archive that may one day be exhibited locally.
Jackie hopes today’s youth understand the power of small actions. “You don’t have to feel helpless. Giving a little of what you can, whenever you can, truly makes a difference.”
She credits Live Aid with pioneering the fusion of celebrity influence and charity, laying groundwork for future campaigns like Comic Relief and Sport Relief. “Forty years later, the legacy continues strong.”
If she could speak to her 1985 self, Jackie would say: “Keep going—you won’t regret a moment. You’ll treasure this time forever.”
Now, four decades on, the Local Aid team invites everyone who was part of the story to reunite—not for fundraising, but to share memories.
Join the anniversary evening at The Bayshill, St Georges Place, Cheltenham, from 7:30 pm on Tuesday, September 30. Bring your photos, stories, and friends to celebrate a true community triumph.