#ILoveLive prize draw raises over £500,000 for UK stage crew

24 December 2020, 10:54 | Written by Cerys Kenneally

(News)

Over £500,000 has been raised for UK stage crew struggling during the coronavirus pandemic via Stagehand's #ILoveLive memorabilia prize draw.

Last month the #ILoveLive prize draw was announced, featuring memorabilia from the likes of Nick Cave, The xx, FKA twigs, Liam Gallagher, Johnny Marr, The Chemical Brothers and more.

The prize draw closed on 17 December, and now NME reports that the campaign managed to raise £546,000 for UK stage crew, bringing Stagehand's COVID-19 Crew Relief Fund total to nearly £1million.

Over 900 grants have been issued so far, with more to follow next year.

The prize draw idea was suggested by Wildlife Entertainment's Ian McAndrew, and the memorabilia was obtained with help from artist manager and promoter David Stopps and booking agent Tom Schroeder. Stopps says, "When I heard about the tenth suicide among stage crew in late August I knew I had to do something. Stage crew are not only suffering great financial hardship but most are also experiencing ill mental health. Money raised from these prize draws will actually save lives and help to safeguard their future."

Earlier this week Music Venue Trust revealed their #SaveOurVenues campaign has raised over £3.8million for grassroots music venues in the UK so far.