A BENEFIT gig in remembrance of a young girl, killed in a 2007 hate crime, is aiming to change the ‘FACE’ of acceptance in this county, and act as a springboard for a new Herefordshire Values Board.

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation Gig at the Jailhouse in Hereford next week will look to raise awareness for those who suffer prejudice because of an alternative lifestyle or way of dressing.

The foundation was set up by Sophie’s mum Sylvia, following her daughter’s tragic death as a result of an unprovoked attack in a public park.

Since that day, Sylvia has campaigned relentlessly and successfully to see the legal definition of a hate crime expanded to include alternative subcultures.

And under West Mercia’s new Hate Crime Strategy, “alternative lifestyle, culture physical appearance and style of dress” will all be covered by the broader definition.

Hereford’s Safer Neighbourhood team leader, Nick Semper, said: “I had the privilege of meeting Sylvia in person, and was inspired by her work.

“I resolved to support her charity and publicise her work in delivering a lasting legacy to Sophie and promoting a safe, just and tolerant society – especially here in Herefordshire.”

The benefit gig, which features performances from nationally-renowned bands Let’s Talk Daggers and I Cried Wolf, is not a police-led event.

However it does tie in with the launch of the Herefordshire Values Board, created by Neville Meredith, the community cohesion officer at Herefordshire Council.

The Values Board identifies and champions ‘FACE’ values – fairness, acceptance, community and equality – and the benefit gig was seen as a perfect platform for people to celebrate similarities, rather than focus of differences.

The board will have monthly meetings, organise flagship events like this gig and will work within the community to promote FACE values.

Mr Meredith said: “This is just one of many projects ongoing in the county at the moment.

“Through this event we seek to raise awareness, work in partnership and build trust and confidence so that we, as a community, can address hate crime in its broadest sense.”

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation gig will take place on Saturday October 25, with doors opening at 8pm and entrance costing £4.