Local comics support Gateshead Carers

On set: Steffen Peddie as Big Keith (L), alongside Hebburn creator Jason Cook.

Steffen Peddie will compere a benefit gig for Gateshead Carers Association on Monday to raise awareness and generate funds to support unpaid adult carers living or working in Gateshead.

Peddie, who plays Big Keith in Hebburn, will appear at The Stand in Newcastle alongside Carl Hutchinson, Marc Smethurst, and BBC New Comedy regional finalist Lauren Pattison to support the Gateshead Carers association.

Smethurst was Giggle Beats’ New Acts of the Month in January, with Pattison taking the title in April.

The event at The Stand is to raise awareness of carers who provide regular support to a friend or loved one who could not manage without this help.

Gateshead Carers offers carers a confidential one-to-one support service no matter what the disability or illness of the cared for person, providing guidance and advice on practical matters such as benefits, housing and care packages to combating some of the emotional issues often faced by carers such as isolation, depression and improving their health & wellbeing.

Helen Hughes, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Gateshead Carers said: “It’s becoming more and more difficult for small charities to sustain themselves in the current climate so we need to look at new and innovative ways of generating funds to support ourselves.

“A comedy night is perfect! I think everyone feels the winter blues to some degree, especially with the cold, dark nights setting in, so what better way of shaking off the blues than with laughter?”

Tickets are £7, or £6 for concessions.

The Gateshead Carers Association benefit is at The Stand, Newcastle on Monday 18 November 2013. Doors are at 7pm and the show starts at 8.30pm. Tickets are available online or on the door.