Bands play Party in the Park to raise cash for children who lost their mum

Sonia Rayner, of Brampton, Chesterfield, was just 33 wehen she died of sudden heart failure following a severe viral infection last year.

She left behind her son Jack, 16, and daughters Rubi-Grace, 5, and India-Mae, 4.

This weekend musicians and singers will join forces for a fundraiser in aid of the three youngsters.

The Britannia Bash: Party in the Park at Chesterfield’s Queen’s Park on Saturday, June 20, starts at midday with the first band on stage at 1pm.

Groups and artists taking part include rock ‘n’ roll band The Buddies, guitar duo Hush, indie/rock band Pegsun, ska, punk mod band The Nutty Boys, semi-acoustic trio She Said, rock band Creakin’ Limb, vocal duo Craig James and Ian Jones, Chesterfield Acoustic Idol finalist Dan Aspinal, rock band DFacto and indie/rock band Crackin’ Right Foot.· Stalls, a bouncy castle, food tent and an outdoor bar will be among the attractions at the event which is sponsored by the Britannia Inn in Brampton.

Last year the Britannia Bash raised £3,600 for Sonia’s children.

Her brother Barry, who plays drums in Crackin’ Right Foot, said: “Sonia was well known in the local community for her unwavering focus on her family, and loved by all who knew her.

“The majority of Sonia’s adult life was spent caring for her chldren, as she was an extremely devoted mother.

“This included the extra care required by Jack, who suffers from a rare and severe form of Brittle Asthma; necessitating constant medical treatment, additional support and numerous, often long periods of hospitalisation. As a consequence Sonia was never able to undertake any long term or full time employment.

“In order to help ensure that Jack and his sisters continue to receive the care they require, a discretionary trust has been established in Sonia’s name. The Trust, formally constituted and overseen by three trustees, is focused on supporting the children’s development by providing the extra things they may need as they grow, over and above ordinary and everyday living expenses; such as educational fees, equipment and facilities.”

Entry to Saturday’s event is free.