Mott Fest gives £3,300 to St Michael’s Hospice
St. Michael’s Hospice in Hereford received a heartfelt donation of over £3,300 from Verden Allen, a co-founder of the iconic band Mott The Hoople. The donation was raised through Mottfest, a weekend-long celebration in Ross-on-Wye last October that honored the band’s legacy and music. The hospice was deeply touched by this act of generosity, especially considering the connection to the band’s history, following the passing of founding member Pete Overend Watts in 2017.
Verden Allen, along with event organizer Simon Rowberry, presented the donation to Amy Johnson, the hospice’s events and community fundraiser. This significant contribution highlights the power of music and community to come together in support of a noble cause.
The weekend festivities were not just about fundraising; they were a tribute to the band’s roots in Ross-on-Wye. In honor of two co-founding members, Pete Overend Watts and Dale Buffin Griffin, a memorial bench was unveiled with a blue plaque. The memorial bench ceremony ended on a poignant note with a rendition of ‘All The Young Dudes’ by a crowd of 100 people at the Rope Walk.
The unveiling of the blue plaque at the Hope and Anchor was a nod to the band’s early days when they performed as The Anchors before eventually evolving into Mott The Hoople. This symbolic gesture not only pays homage to the band’s musical journey but also serves as a reminder of the deep ties that bind a community together through shared memories and acts of kindness.
Mott Fest co-ordinator Simon Rowberry summed up the weekend as a blend of music, nostalgia, and emotional tributes. The event brought together fans, supporters, and music lovers to celebrate the legacy of a band that left an indelible mark on the music industry.
In times of loss and hardship, it is heartwarming to see communities rally together to support organizations like St. Michael’s Hospice. The generosity of people like Verden Allen and Simon Rowberry serves as a shining example of the positive impact that music and charity can have on our lives and the lives of others.
As we reflect on the success of Mottfest and the meaningful donation to St. Michael’s Hospice, we are reminded of the enduring power of music to bring people together, evoke memories, and create lasting connections within our communities. It is in these moments of shared joy and generosity that we find solace and strength to face challenges and uplift those in need.