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Rock Against Leukaemia returns to Ipswich next month

The Steamboat Tavern will host the ninth annual Rock Against Leukaemia on 9 August, featuring 10 local bands and aiming to raise over £2,000 for Children with Cancer UK.

Rock Against Leukaemia (RAL) All-Stars
Rock Against Leukaemia (RAL) All-Stars
(Rock Against Leukaemia)

Why it matters: Every day in the UK, around 10 children and young people are diagnosed with cancer. The fundraising event has already raised more than £25,000 through the generosity of the local community since 2017.

The details: The free event runs from 12:00 to 23:00, featuring an eclectic mix of rock, acoustic, punk and more. Attendees can support the cause through donations, raffle ticket purchases and stall purchases.

The line-up includes Evolution, Echo Ridge, L.T.P Duo, Hope Ahead, Bag Of Bones, Fisti Kuffs, Mid life Crisis, East Town Pirates and The Psychic Pimps.

The Steamboat Tavern in Ipswich
The Steamboat Tavern in Ipswich(Oliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk)

What to look out for: The RAL All-Stars, a one-off supergroup of musicians from different bands, including organiser Andy Heffer-Lamond, will perform at 17:00. The group tackles a completely new musical genre each year, but this year's choice remains a mystery.

The bigger picture: Rock Against Leukaemia was founded by Luke Smith and taken up in 2017 by Andy Heffer-Lamond with Luke's blessing. The event receives support from local retailer The Drumming Shop, which provides vital equipment for the day's performances.

Thanks partly to funding from Children with Cancer UK, eight in 10 children diagnosed with cancer can now be successfully treated. The charity is committed to developing safer, kinder and more effective treatments.

A spokesperson for Children with Cancer UK said they were "so grateful" for the event's support.

The bottom line: Rock Against Leukaemia 9 combines Ipswich's vibrant music scene with a vital cause, offering free entertainment while supporting research that saves young lives.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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