MALVERN businesses have responded generously to a call for raffle prizes in support of a fundraising concert being organised by the town council.

The concert, Remembering the Heroes of War, takes place on Friday, September 26, at Malvern College, in aid of four good causes, including the restoration of the grave of Malvern VC hero Henry Ward.

18 businesses have pledged prizes for the raffle, which is being organised by Cllr Helen I’Anson, including the Morgan Motor Company, Malvern Theatres, Waitrose, Detour Cycles and MSJ Sports and Fitness Centre.

All money from the raffle will be distributed between the Henry Ward VC Memorial Restoration Fund and Mayor Julian Roskams’ chosen charities, Age UK and Dementia UK, and the Not Forgotten Association.

Henry Ward, who died in Malvern in 1867 and is buried in the town's cemetery, won the Victoria Cross for saving two wounded comrades during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Henry Ward did not die in service, so the Commonwealth War Graves Commission does not maintain the memorial, and it is currently in a state of disrepair.

Friday's concert includes the Trench Raiders performing a selection of songs from the First World War, and between the songs, military historian Kenneth Wright will give the audience a factual account of the conflict.

Tickets are available from Malvern Town Council on Belle Vue Terrace, priced at £7.50 for adults and £5 for children.