THERE couldn’t have been many people in Usk that didn’t hear music pouring out of the garden of Number 49 as band members from supergroup Asia brought an eclectic mix to town in aid of a charity

Geoff Downes and Harry Whitley found the gap between tour dates to bring their medley to the venue’s garden on Friday night, July 25, with proceeds going to the Love Hope Strength Foundation, which specialises in supporting people who are affected by cancer.

The charity, founded by the late frontman of The Alarm Mike Peters. operates in the UK, USA and Australia, but the Welsh connection was one that was particularly important to both musicians.

“I met Mike Peters last year and he sadly passed away a couple of months ago after building up a huge following from this charity, going on walks all over the world,” said Raglan-based Geoff, who was also behind the huge worldwide Buggles hit Video Killed the Radio Star alongside Trevor Horn.

“For him it was an incredible thing to do because he had cancer for the 35 years, and he was able to specialise in supporting other people going through similar experiences.”

The total amount raised for the charity was £2,234, a sum which will undoubtedly go a long way to supporting the work of the foundation and reinforce the impact that this community has when it gets together for good causes.

Geoff is the keyboardist and vocalist with Asia, who recorded the biggest selling album in the whole world with their debut in 1982.

Bandmate Harry, is a frequent visitor with both saying they appreciated the chance to use a local gig to put the proceeds to good use.