Emily Barker with the Red Clay Halo

Last Saturday, Christ Church hosted a concert featuring music from local and international performers. REFUGE is a celebration of female music talent, which raises money for an excellent cause – Swindon Women’s Aid.   The headline act for this unique event was Emily Barker and the Red Clay Halo. Hailing from Bridgetown, Western Australia, Emily Barker is a compelling songwriter with a gift for weaving melody and words. Supporting acts included Colour the Atlas, Jen Olive and Swindon based Faye Rogers. The concert was really well attended and the church was beautifully decorated with candles, creating a wonderful atmosphere.

Marie Lennon, the concert organiser told us:

“The event was a incredibly special evening, and felt like a magical night for all those who attended and performed. Christ Church proved to be an amazing venue for the concert, and so many people commented on how stunning the church is. I have no doubt that it would have not been nearly as successful, or memorable without the kindness and generosity of the people from Christ Church – who supported Refuge, and therefore Swindon Women’s Aid with open arms. I hope an event like this can happen again in this very special place.”

The concert raised at least £1,000 and received generous sponsorship from both Honda and the Co-op and was the product of lots of work from the Refuge team. You can find out more about Swindon Women’s Aid here. If you can bear to listen find out why Swindon Women’s Aid is so important in this interview given to Marie Lennon.

Jen Olive