Celebrities ready to take part in Kidney Kids bash

(Pictured from left) John Bunce, brand manager of the Jam House, Birmingham; Jenny Wilkes, appeal co-ordinator; Bev Bevan; Jimmy Franks, BBC WM.

An array of celebrities are lined-up to take part in one of Birmingham’s most exciting charity events of the year.

Bev Bevan and his “super group” will be heading up the Kidney Kids bonanza, which takes place at the Birmingham Jam House on Tuesday, October 27, to raise money for the BBC WM Kidney Kids Appeal.

The appeal, which began in July 2008, is edging ever closer to its £1.5 million target to build a new renal unit for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

The event at the legendary live music venue in St Paul’s Square will feature soul singer Ruby Turner – as well as BBC WM presenters Phil Upton, Joanne Malin, Jimmy Franks, Daz Hale and Jenny Wilkes.

But ELO drummer Bev, who presents his own show on BBC WM on Sundays from 2-4pm, has promised some surprise celebrity guests joining him and his band on stage.

“I have some surprises in store that I am very excited about,” he said.

“Midlanders have been incredibly supportive of this appeal. We are so close to achieving our dream of building this new renal unit that I urge everyone to come along to what will be a fantastic night out.”

Jenny Wilkes, BBC WM’s Appeal Co-ordinator said: “We’ve been absolutely amazed by the generosity of our listeners, especially during a recession.

“I know the new renal unit is going to make a real difference to the young patients at the hospital, and as the appeal nears its target, we’ll be letting our hair down and having a great night.”

Tickets for the event cost at £5 in advance and £7 on the door and are available online from www.thejamhouse/birmingham. Or telephone the box office on 0121 200 3030.