THE Ropemakers in Bridport is hosting a day of music to raise money for the local food bank, Cupboard Love as part of “We Shall Overcome” a national weekend of gigs which will see more than 250 concerts across the UK all under one banner.

“We Shall Overcome’ is a community effort led by musicians and music promoters who want to do something practical to help people in our area who are being hit hard by homelessness and poverty.

“We Shall Overcome” is happening across the UK and more than 200 events are being held in October.

The Ropemaker’s event is on Saturday October 8.

The organisers hope this show of solidarity will also highlight the human cost to the politics of austerity. Several thousand musicians will perform as audiences are encouraged to bring food for foodbanks or make donations to homelessness and other projects.

Keith Hatch, one of the organisers of the gig at The Ropemakers,, said “We Shall Overcome is very much pro-community initiative with events the length of the country aimed at supporting local projects.

"We wanted to do our bit here in Bridport to show solidarity and be part of something big that’s happening right across the country.

“Cupboard Love has been doing a brilliant job providing food parcels to those in need in the area, and unfortunately the numbers that need to make use of their services continues to grow.

"I thought it really important to get involved in We Shall Overcome and support our local food bank.”

Last year’s event raised more than £750 to help people in Bridport using the Food Bank, and this year organisers hope to top that.

Keith added: "Headlining the event will be Black Water County – folk punk favourites who have been rapidly gaining in popularity since bursting onto the Dorset music scene in 2013.

"The bands and musicians taking part throughout the rest of the day include Natures Cage, Garry Smith Band, Those Voices Poor, Ruthy Ni Conalliain, Abi Rich, Behind Closed Doors and Jamie McDonald."

The Ropemaker’s event runs from 3pm to late with admission free, but audiences are being asked to make a donation to Cupboard Love food bank.

A full UK gig listing and more information can be found on weshallovercomeweekend.com