My Uncle James has been a pillar of the community and live music scene in the Forest of Dean for many years.

If you're local to the area, you'll know that James has been a champion of various projects in Cinderford, including acting as Chairman of the Miners Hall, organising Cinderford Music Festival and, more recently, turning the Fern Ticket into a buzzing live music venue, with acts travelling from all over the UK to play there.

He has spent his entire time in Cinderford giving, never asking for anything in return.

Right now, and for the first time in all these years, my Uncle needs YOUR help.

A few months ago, James and his business partner signed a 5 year lease to manage the Fern Ticket, investing a HUGE amount of money in just the first few months.

A few weeks ago, out of the blue, they were shut down without any warning, or explanation as to why.

Their livelihoods taken from them overnight, both families must now try to make sense of this, and find a way to make ends meet while they're doing it - with their only source of income gone and their own salaries still owed to them.

As you'd imagine, this is going to be a rough ride, so I am appealing to all of James's friends, acts and regulars to help him get back on his feet.

The one bit of good news here is their passion for building a great live music community in Cinderford is (surprisingly) still intact, and this is another reason why they need your help.

It would be amazing if the local community (and indeed lovers of live music nationwide) could help contribute to raise funds for retaining a solicitor and to meet any immediate expenses, in this bid to save live music in Cinderford.

Although I don't live in Cinderford, James is my hero and I have seen first hand the blood sweat and tears he's put into the Fern and other local projects before it.

I know he wouldn't dream of asking you to help him out, and that's why I am asking.

So whether you were a regular at the Fern, or popped along occasionally like me, to see the great live bands, or maybe you even got paid to play there for James - please donate whatever you can afford - James (and his family; Kelly, Jake, Charly and Lexi) will be forever grateful.

Thank you x

PS - please share!