Independent shop owner to sing in Shrewsbury fundraiser after fatal fire

An independent shop owner will stage a live singing performance this month to raise funds after a fatal fire destroyed a historic home and business, leaving a family facing both personal loss and the urgent cost of stabilising the building.

Libby Gliksman, owner of Market Cookshop in Shrewsbury Market Hall, will perform a live fundraising set on Friday 21 February at 2pm to help rebuild Perches House after a fatal fire earlier this year.

Gliksman will sing from the market hall balcony for 45 minutes and collect cash donations from shoppers and visitors.

The appeal supports Jess Richards, whose mother Rose Roberts died in the blaze and whose home and business were destroyed.

Gliksman said she was deeply affected by the tragedy and felt compelled to take practical action after learning the scale of the loss.

Perches House, a Grade II* listed 14th-century townhouse on Castle Street, suffered severe structural damage including the roof and original oak staircase despite the response of 11 fire engines.

About £100,000 is urgently needed to stabilise the uninsured building before restoration can begin.

Image credit: Jessica Richards - Crowdfunder