A CHARITY gig will be taking place in memory of a Worcester artist who died suddenly on October 14 last year.

Les Harper, who lived in Martley, Worcestershire, was well known on the county circuit as a solo guitar player and singer.

He died suddenly at the age of 61 of a heart attack.

Several artistes are now set to pay tribute to Les in a memorial show on Friday, May 9, by performing their songs free of charge.

All proceeds will be given to his widow, Margaret who wants to donate funds equally between The British Heart Foundation and Acorns Children's Hospice.

Artists appearing for the Marr's Bar gig in Pierpoint Street, Worcester, are Tom Marr, Mal C, Dave Beale, Mick Prince, Keith Brace, Trax Duo, Passion Duo and Alan Harber.

Les was born in Gloucester in 1941 and moved to Suckley as a young boy.

He went on to serve in the Kings Hussars for nine years.

''On leaving the Army, he took a job driving a JCB as it was the nearest thing to driving a tank,'' said Beryl Marr, a friend.

''Les enjoyed singing and turned this hobby into a semi-professional status, performing in a band called The Rustlers which was mainly country and western.

''He went solo playing guitar and singing. This is how most people in the Worcestershire area will remember him.''

Les married Margaret in June, 1986, and went on singing and playing guitar until he got a karaoke in 1990 which Margaret helped him run.

''After they married Les moved to Martley where he became a well-known character in the village,'' said Beryl.

In 1995 Les had a heart attack and, after this, he supported the British Heart Foundation by charity fund-raising through his entertainment.

Les retired from music through ill health in 2000.

''Les had a very good nature, was infectious and audiences warmed to his humour,'' said Beryl.

''A lot of people didn't realise he'd passed away. The gig is a nice way for people to pay their respects.''

Tickets for the charity do, which takes place from 8.15pm to 1.30am, are £5 on the door.

Tickets are available from Beryl on 01905 20349.