A fundraising concert in aid of Ukranian refugees will take place at the Gladstone Theatre in Port Sunlight next weekend.

Featuring a host of performers from across Wirral, the show is at the venue on Greendale Road next Sunday (May 22). All proceeds will go to the British Red Cross, which is co-ordinating the relief effort.

It will feature performances from Mark Sebastian D’Lacey, Billy Thompson, Tia Gill and local dramatic, operatic and musical societies supported by the Greg Williams 17-piece Glenn Miller-style big band.

The local groups taking part are Bebington Dramatic Society, Port Sunlight Players, Heswall Musical Society, Hoylake & West Kirby (Hawk) Theatre Group and Rock Ferry Operatic Society. Soloists from West Kirby Light Opera Society will also perform.

The mayor will also be attendance, as will the Gladstone Theatre's patron Lady Anne Dodd, widow of comedy legend Sir Ken.

The show is produced by musical director Greg Williams, assisted by Valerie Houldin.

Looking ahead to the performance, Greg told the Globe: "The idea for the concert came from Den Stevenson, who had written The Bugle Boy - a musical about Glenn Miller, that I was musical director for when the show premiered at the Gladstone Theatre.

"He suggested that I could something to help The Red Cross through the Greg Williams Big Band, which was a very good idea that, I hope raises funds for the Ukranian refugees who desperately need our help.

"Please come and support the concert and help us raise as much as we can."

Greg continued: "I wanted as many local performers as possible to take part and many local groups agreed to do their bit. I am so grateful for their support.

"Mark Lacey will do a few Sinatra-style songs. Tia Gill, from West Kirby Light Opera Society, is a very well-known local actress and will sing Don't rain on my parade.

"Also appearing will be the amazing Billy Thompson, gypsy violinist and part of Paraphernalia, internationally-know band. He originates from Neston.

"We also have Bebington Dramatic Society, who will perform an excerpt from The Vicar of Dibley.

"There is a member of West Kirby Light Opera who has been with them for many years. Top of his bucket list is to sing with a big band. He will get the chance to do so on the night."

Praising support for the fundraising show, Greg continued: "The Gladstone Theatre Trust has given us use of the theatre on the night for free.

"I would like to thank the trust's chair Janet Roxby and all of the trustees for their part in letting us put on the show for free.

"Richprint have printed the flyers for free.

"Local businesses have also contributed to the cause, with some fantastic prizes for the raffle."

The show on Sunday, May 22 starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets, £12, from gladstonetheatre.org.uk or 0151 643 8757.