IT may seen like the last place you would go to for a gig, but a church in Evesham is being transformed into a music venue for the latest fundraiser for the town's Abbey Bell Tower.

Following the success of last year's event, local performers Dean Bayliss, Qualia Acoustix (Emma Oakley-Hall and Thom Parry) and hanna*h* (Hanna Knight and Tim Haines) form the line-up for LIVE & LOCAL, which is taking place in All Saints Church on Friday.

Sue Ablett, chairman of the fundraising committee, said: "We want to bring the appeal and the

Church up to date and make both more accessible to the younger generation.

"The Bell Tower is part of our heritage and we hope that by involving all members of our community, young and old, we can raise awareness of its importance in our town.

"LIVE & LOCAL is a fantastic way of bringing everyone together and raising money for such an important cause."

In total the Bell Tower appeal needs to raise £500,000 to repair and conserve the tower, built in 1531 by Abbot Clement Lichfield.

Since it began in June last year it has been backed by the Journal and readers have raised about £10,000 of the £80,000 secured.

Tickets are £8 and are available from Almonry Museum, Abbey Appliances, Moo Moo's Cafe & Bar, the Church or by emailing sueablett1@btinternet.com.

Doors open at 7.30pm with music starting at 8pm. All proceeds from ticket sales go to the Bell Tower Appeal.