Organisers of the Big Busk – Happy days in Shrewsbury which took place in the town centre on Saturday 6th April have hailed it as a great success, so much so they are now planning to do it all again next year!

Over 40 musical acts made up by over 200 people were signed up to take part, and many more turned up on the day filling the town with a carnival atmosphere. The event was organised as a tribute to Ben Bebbington by his family and friends on what would have been his 44th birthday.

It also raised awareness and funds for the Shrewsbury Ark, a charity that had supported Ben in recent years and meant a huge amount to him.

Tim Compton Manager of Shrewsbury Ark said: “On behalf of everyone at the Ark, I would like to express our extreme thanks to you all for the support which made the Big Busk a success.

"This was a truly remarkable event and it was a real pleasure to see so much of the town involved with the celebrations, creating at atmosphere of real community. In terms of income we have raised £3,350 which will go towards the £85,000 it costs to run the Ark each year.”

Tim went on to say: “I would like to thank all of the staff and volunteers, musicians, officials and all the public who made the day possible and such a fitting tribute to Ben – a happy day from start to finish.”

Mr Bebbington’s mother, Tricia Nicholson said: “I would like to say thank you personally for the comfort I gained from being able to enjoy a lovely celebration of Ben’s life.

"It was a very emotional day for me but I met so many lovely people with big hearts and kind words, I felt very proud to be his mum.”

Karen Higgins, Ben’s sister and event organiser, said: “The day was just beautiful, the sun shone and everyone had a lovely time. We have been literally bombarded by people getting in touch with warm wishes and to see if we will be repeating the event next year.

"This was only ever intended to be a one off event to help us achieve something positive from what we can only describe as horrific events. Having taken a week to recover and reflect, we are delighted to announce that we will be doing it all again on Saturday 5th April 2014.

"It is our full intention that any future events must remain focused on the fabulous community and talent that thrives in our local area.” Performances on 6th April covered a whole range of musical genres from opera and classical to contemporary and folk.

"There were also dance flashmobs and a collective performance of Imagine by John Lennon which took place on Pride Hill in which approximately 100 singers and musicians took part."

Anyone interested in taking part in next year’s event can email shrewsburyhappydays@live.co.uk or contact Karen on 07853 248 810.