‘It’s Christmasssss’ – Leeds band rocks out at festive gig raising funds for Sue Ryder

On Friday 5 December, the group performed a special Christmas gig in memory of their former singer Sheldon Bonner and raisied over £600 for Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, where Sheldon received care.

Guitarist Peter Nota explained: “I’ve been in the band since the early 90s, and Sheldon joined us as our singer in 1993.

"He received care at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice at the end of his life, which is why we wanted to do this gig, to give something back to the charity.

"We’ve done a few of these concerts over the years, it felt fitting to hold one this Christmas in Sheldon’s memory.”

Sheldon and Peter first met at school before reconnecting years later when forming the band.

Sheldon went on to perform with Touch for 25 years and was also a keen vocalist in his own right, singing at events around the local area.

He also shared a close friendship with keyboard player Steve Batty, who joined the band in the mid‑1990s.

Away from the stage, the two were regular golf partners, reflecting the long‑standing friendship they enjoyed alongside their music.

The talented five‑piece delivered an eclectic setlist spanning rock classics from the late 70s to today, with songs from Pink Floyd to Oasis and even some ABBA thrown in for good measure. The night closed on a festive high with the much‑loved Slade anthem, It’s Christmasssss.

Peter concluded: “I think Sheldon would be really happy that we’re still performing together, raising money for such an important cause.”