RECORD BREAKING CHARITY CONCERT RETURNS TO SUNDERLAND

Sunderland’s much-loved Music Against Child Poverty night is coming back this December, once again raising money for local baby bank charity Love, Amelia. For the past two years, the show has packed out The Fire Station and raised serious cash for families in need. In 2025 alone, it brought in a remarkable £51,684.10. On Sunday 6 December 2026, exactly a year after the last one, organisers are aiming to go even bigger.

This year’s lineup mixes familiar faces with a few exciting returns. Frankie and The Heartstrings will headline, playing their first gig in nearly five years. Frontman Frankie Francis (who also works for Sunderland Music City) will host the night. Masked instrumentalists B>E>A>K are back too, featuring members of This Ain’t Vegas, The Lake Poets and White Legs. Maximo Park’s Paul Smith returns after his memorable set in 2024, while Sunderland band Swindled, 70s-inspired duo Smith & Liddle, Mackem girlband Northern Daughters and local rapper Kay Greyson complete a strong North East bill.

For the first time, the gig will offer both seated and standing tickets, so you can either dive into the thick of it or take a slightly more relaxed view. Every pound raised goes straight to Love, Amelia, which supports families facing poverty and hardship across Tyne and Wear and County Durham.

The evening will also mark the launch of local author Glenda Young’s new mystery novel Murder at the Seaview Hotel. Glenda is donating all profits from the book to the charity and will be selling copies on the night. “When I was researching the book, I spoke to loads of North East musicians,” she said. “Sunderland Music City were so helpful putting me in touch with people, and I wanted to repay that kindness. I was gobsmacked when they invited me to launch the book at this gig. I can’t think of a better way to do it. The Fire Station is my favourite venue, and every penny from the book – whether sold online or at the merch table will go to Love, Amelia.”

Michelle Daurat, CEO of Sunderland Music City, added: “We’re thrilled to bring Music Against Child Poverty back. Last year’s show was really special, and we’re looking forward to more incredible performances – and hopefully smashing last year’s total. Being able to help the community while giving people a great night out is what we’re all about.”

Steph Capewell, CEO of Love, Amelia, said the event has already made a real difference: “Thanks to the funds raised, we’re able to support around 1,000 local children and their families. That support really matters, and we’re incredibly proud to see the night return for a third year.”

Tickets go on general sale this Friday, 9 October, at 10 am via thefirestation.org.uk

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