The legacy of a legendary and beloved Stroud music teacher will live on as a group of her former students team up again to raise money for a local charity, writes Freddie Whittaker.
Last June, Stars: An Evening inspired by Ros Tyler, raised more than £12,000 for Longfield Community Hospice, which cared for the fierce and inspiring former Archway School teacher in her final days.
Now the same crew of grateful former pupils has come together again to arrange Stars in the Park, an outdoor event at Longfield’s Minchinhampton headquarters on Sunday August 30th.
“At its heart, Stars is about the community Ros gave us. A safe space where we could truly be ourselves,” said Craig Mather, one of the organisers and an ex-Archway pupil who went on to become a West End star.
The focus of the event is on reuniting former pupils, staff and families from Ros’s time at Archway, after last year’s event saw many catch up for the first time in decades.
The event will featre a musical theatre proms featuring ex-students, a bouncy castle with face-painting, a magician and various family activities, live music into the evening as well as food vans and a fully stocked bar.
Tickets go on sale for £7 on May 4th, and further donations are welcomed on the day.
Thanks to match funding from Benefact Group, every contribution will go even further in supporting Longfield Community Hospice and continuing Ros Tyler’s legacy. The event is also being sponsored by Stroud Brewery.
“It gives us a great sense of pride and comfort to see her influence and inspiration still felt by so many,” said Ros’s husband Bob and sons Paul and Mark.
Jane Dyer, Longfield’s head of fundraising and marketing, said: “Longfield is absolutely delighted that the team behind Stars will be bringing this incredible event to our site in Minchinhampton this summer.
“I attended last year and was so impressed with the standard of the event and the performances.
“I can’t wait to book my ticket and would encourage members of our community to book early as the tickets sold so fast last year. A huge thanks to Stars for choosing to show their love for Longfield.”
