Rufus Fry is a critically acclaimed harmonica player from Stroud, Gloucestershire UK.

Sometime over the weekend of 22nd-24th June 2018 his entire collection of harmonicas, specialist microphones and accessories were stolen from him in a cruel and calculated act, most probably as he slept next to them in his van. Someone completely emptied his case, taking absolutely everything. Whoever did this did not take his camera, wallet or other expensive items nearby with greater resale potential. It seems he was targeted for his harmonicas - his passion. He is completely devastated, confused and deeply shaken.

Rufus has toured all over the UK and Europe with his band The Achievers and has received wide-spread critical acclaim for his inventive, versatile playing. He has brought joy to the thousands of people that have seen him perform professionally and the thousands more who have sat with him around a campfire or party and shared his unique talent. His dedication to music and his expertise as a harmonica player are a special part of his identity - for many it's what makes Ru, 'Ru'. He has dedicated much of the last fifteen years to building his collection, they are the unique tools of his art.

His collection of 30+ harmonicas are, to him, completely priceless - each one has been careful selected and modified over the course of his playing career. To have the entire collection taken from him has left him completely heart broken. This is not only because of the priceless, sentimental value of his treasured harps, but also because he is on the brink of hugely exciting times as a professional musician.

The theft of any musical instrument is heartbreaking, but the unusual practical elements of this problem are why we are appealing for help to fund a new set. As you will know some musical instruments are expensive and some of them are very rare - but almost all of them have deep, personal meaning to those that play them. Rufus had 34 taken from him at once.

We have explored all other options and they're not viable at this time - Rufus needs your help. This is about the music and arts community coming together to help one of their own. It's about recognising the heartbreaking circumstances of a musician having his life's passion cruelly snatched from him. It's also about helping a victim of crime with whatever you can spare. I will personally answer to any scrutiny or any cynical objection. If there was another way, we'd do it.

To perform again Rufus needs around twelve diatonic and two Chromatics harps, as well as a specialist microphone. The professional level harmonicas that Rufus needs to replace range in price from £30 - £250. If you can contribute £1 we will be step closer to enabling Rufus to play again.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and if you are willing to contribute we cannot thank you enough. Our goal is to see Rufus on stage at The Achievers' next gig at The 100 Club, London on 26th July with a big smile on his face and a new set of harps at his feet. Thank you.

Points to note:

- If by some miracle Rufus' original harmonicas are returned to him I will personally contact every last support to discuss options for a returning your donation.

- If we raise over our target will attempt to reinstate Rufus' entire collection of harmonicas and accessories, including the extremely rare and custom built effects pedals and microphones that were also stolen, totaling around £2000. Beyond that, we will donate any excess to a music charity of Rufus's choice.