Music event in memory of 'much-loved' Powys character

Music from the Parish, raising funds for St Michael’s Hospice, will take place on Wednesday, June 19, at 7pm at St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne, in memory of Andy Leavis of Courtyard Antiques.

Andy passed away peacefully at St Michael's Hospice, in Bartestree, near Hereford, on February 4, aged 61.

“Gratitude is the motivation behind this fundraiser, inspired by the level of kindness and quality of medical care Andy, and many other friends, received from all the staff at St Michael's Hospice,” said Andy’s partner, Jules Brisbane.

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“The thoughtful building design and wonderful gardens contribute to the atmosphere of safety and tranquillity. It was a great comfort to us both that Andy was able to be there.”

The local bands and musicians taking part in Music from the Parish are Little Rumba, Jessica Rising and Presteigne Pop Choir, with the event also including a performance by Rev Steve Hollinghurst. The event will be compered by local writer and broadcaster, Ian Marchant.

Pete Mustill, singer and guitarist in Little Rumba and a friend of Andy’s, said: “Andy was the most extraordinary polymath (a person of wide knowledge or learning).

“What was he interested in? Art, antiques, old buildings, churches, old cars especially Austin A 35s, coaches and buses, magazines, Presteigne’s history, music, records, CDs, food, dogs, birdwatching, you name it.

Andy passed away peacefully at St Michael's Hospice, in Bartestree, near Hereford, on February 4, aged 61. (Image: Supplied)

“But most of all he liked people and particularly anybody who ventured into the 10 square yards of pavement outside his shop, Courtyard Antiques.

“Within 5 minutes of moving here he accumulated more knowledge about the town and its history than some people who had lived here for 50 years.”

Andy was described as a “much-loved Presteigne character “who will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him following his death.

A service of celebration for Andy's life took place at St Andrew's Church on February 29, with people urged to donate to St Michael's Hospice if they wished.

A raffle will be drawn on the night and this includes generous donations by the community, including paintings, ceramics, prints, restaurant vouchers and food and wine. Bar and snacks will be available.

Doors open 6.15pm. Tickets (cash only) are priced at £15 and are available from The Salty Dog, The Workhouse Gallery and Courtyard Antiques.