Music day marks Shrewsbury busker's memory
Family and friends of a Shrewsbury busker who was murdered last year will stage a musical tribute to him in the town centre to mark his birthday, it emerged today.
Shrewsbury will be filled with music on Saturday, April 6, on what would have been Ben Bebbington's 44th birthday.
The event, which is being called the 'The Big Busk – Happy Days in Shrewsbury', will raise awareness of and funds for the Shrewsbury Ark.
The Ark is a drop-in centre for homeless and vulnerable people and it had supported Mr Bebbington in recent years and meant a huge amount to him.
Mr Bebbington was discovered unconscious on the old canal footpath between Ditherington Road and Telford Way, in Shrewsbury, on September 7 last year.
He died from head injuries.
Stewart Kevin Doran, 21, has pleaded guilty to murder.
The April tribute event will involve music being performed throughout the day in various locations around the town including Pride Hill, the town's shopping centres, the Market Hall, as well as places not normally associated with live music, such as the town's library.
Performances will cover a whole range of musical genres from opera and classical to contemporary and folk.
Organisers say there will also be a few surprises and special moments throughout the day.
People are being encouraged to come and enjoy a musical day in the town, whether by shopping, dining or simply enjoying the sounds on offer.
Tricia Nicholson, Mr Bebbington's mother, said: "Ben often told me he felt lonely but that when he busked he felt less so. It will be lovely to have so many people playing music around the town on what would have been 44th birthday."
Karen Higgins, Ben's sister and event organiser, said: "We are delighted and overwhelmed with the response we have had from the council, local businesses and most importantly, performers.
"People have been so generous in offering their talent and time to busk around the town. All the money collected through their busking will be given to the Shrewsbury Ark."
Tim Compton, manager of Shrewsbury Ark, which is based in Castle Foregate, said: "We were all very fond of Ben and he is still much missed by all his friends here.
"It will be of some comfort if something positive can come out of such tragic events."
Anyone interested in taking part in the day is asked to e-mail shrewsburybigbusk@live.co.uk or alternatively call Karen on 07807 162207 to find out more about the event.
