Forty years ago, Cheltenham answered the call inspired by Live Aid with a local concert that embodied the true spirit of community.
In just five whirlwind, hope-driven weeks, a group of volunteers turned a casual chat in a bistro into a full-scale festival at Cox’s Meadow. The event raised thousands of pounds for famine relief, united the town around a shared cause, and created memories that still resonate today.
Now, in 2025, those memories are being revived.
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On Tuesday, September 30, everyone involved—organisers, volunteers, performers, and attendees—is invited to an informal anniversary evening at The Bayshill, St Georges Place, Cheltenham. Guests are encouraged to bring photos, share stories, or simply come along to raise a glass in celebration of a day when Cheltenham came together in extraordinary fashion.
Jackie Alder, one of the original organisers, recalls the inspiration: “I was moved by Bob Geldof and Live Aid. A few friends and I did a bucket collection in the town centre right after the concert.”
That simple act sparked a fire. Within days, local musicians and professionals gathered to plan their own benefit event. “What began as a small idea quickly blossomed into a full-day family festival.”
Without official backing, a blueprint, or much time, the team relied on determination—and the town’s generosity.
Local gallery owner Cliff Lane donated his premises and a phone line in Well Walk as the organisation’s headquarters. “Another local business gave us a generous initial sum,” Jackie remembers. The total costs were just £1,588, allowing the group to donate £16,200 to the cause.
Putting the event together meant calling on goodwill and resourcefulness. “We needed everything—stages, equipment, volunteers, performers. Local press helped spread the word, turning the gallery into a hub of activity and offers of help.”
Volunteers proved vital. “It simply couldn’t have happened without them,” Jackie stresses. “Anyone who offered time, tools, or talent was matched to a task.”
About 5,000 people attended, including families, music lovers, and curious locals. The weather was kind, and the town’s atmosphere was electric. “I was mostly at the site office, so I didn’t get to enjoy the festival fully,” Jackie laughs, “but what an incredible vibe it was.”
Headlining the event was Amazulu, a popular ska-pop band of the era. The festival featured music, stalls, and plenty of entertainment—the perfect summer day out.
There were a few hiccups—the stage crew needed extra help setting up lighting, so the local fire brigade stepped in to lend a hand. “Classic Local Aid moment,” Jackie smiles.
When the final tally came in, the organisers were thrilled: £16,200 raised and donated directly to the Band Aid Trust, with music legend Steve Winwood accepting the cheque on their behalf.
“No one expected fame or thanks,” says Jackie. “Everyone was doing their bit in those days. But we were proud, truly proud.”
More than the money raised, it was what Local Aid represented that lingered. “Cheltenham is full of good people,” Jackie says simply. “It showed what a community can achieve working together for a common cause.”
Afterwards, life went back to normal. “The gallery returned to normal, and everyone resumed their day jobs,” she recalls. But the pride and impact remained.
“I felt so lucky to be part of such a humble, ego-free effort,” Jackie says. “It was a beautiful moment to share.”
Among her treasured keepsakes are candid photos taken by a young volunteer photographer. “We didn’t all have phones back then, so I asked him to capture natural moments—no posing.” These pictures now make up a valuable archive that might one day be displayed—though current museum space is limited.
When asked what today’s youth might learn from Local Aid, Jackie’s message is clear: “You don’t have to feel powerless. Give whatever you can, whenever you can. Every little bit truly helps.”
She credits Live Aid as a watershed moment where celebrity met compassion—a legacy that sparked Comic Relief, Sport Relief, Soccer Aid, and more. “Bob Geldof and musicians started it. Then comedians and athletes joined in. Forty years on, it continues.”
If she could speak to her 1985 self? “Keep doing what you’re doing. You won’t regret it. You’ll treasure the experience forever and be humbled and proud.”
Now, four decades later, the Local Aid team invites everyone once again—not for donations, but to share memories.
All are welcome at The Bayshill, St Georges Place, Cheltenham, from 7:30 pm on Tuesday, September 30, bringing photos, stories, and friends to celebrate a remarkable chapter in Cheltenham’s history.