FROME Town Football Club will be feeling the beats and vibes as they host a special fundraising event on Saturday 9th September to help raise funds for Fairfield House in Bath, the residential home for Emperor Haile Selassie I and his family while they were political refugees between 1936 and 1941.
Bristol-based international reggae artist Troy Ellis and His Hail Jamaica Band will be playing. Son of the legendary Alton Ellis O.D. “King of Rocksteady”, Troy and his band will be mixing dance, vocals and a burning desire to party like his audience. He will be joined by DJay Peter RanX.. NightHeat Movement SounD to help entertain reggae and dance fans across the South West to help support this special heritage site.
Emperor Haile Selassie I and his family lived as political refugees after been driven out of his beloved Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) by forces of the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. The Emperor sought refuge in the UK and settled in Bath for the duration of his exile. The citizens of Bath took the family to their hearts.
The emperor was granted Freedom of the City in 1954 and following his return home, he donated Fairfield House to Bath in 1958 for the benefit of the elders of the city. Over the years it has been used as a nursing home, a day care centre and more recently, a cultural centre, celebrating the importance of Emperor Haile Selassie I and his impact on Bath, the UK and world affairs
Michael Auton, fundraiser for Friends of Fairfield House and concert organiser says, “We are thrilled and honoured that Troy and Peter will supporting our efforts by been part of our fundraising event. HIM Emperor Haile Selassie I was an important historical and cultural figure who is still loved and revered across the world.
“We look forward to welcoming people to Frome Town Football Club for a night of music and entertainment to help support this very special cause.”
Tickets cost £8 each and can purchased through; Frome Town FC, 48 Berkley Road Frome, BA11 2EH (01373 464087) or going online by visiting www.troyellisand hishailjamaicaband.event brite.co.uk
This event is entry by ticket only so, please get your tickets in advance. Doors open at 8pm.
Fairfield House is an important historical and cultural centre for residents of Bath and wider national and international Rastafarian and Ethiopian communities. It is has been home to several groups and organisations working with older people including, Age UK, Action for Pensioners and currently BEMSCA (Bath Ethnic Minorities Senior Citizens Association) and the local branch of the Townswoman’s Guild. Throughout the year, it hosts a range of cultural events, art and photography exhibitions which reflect the diverse ethnic communities who use and appreciate the house and the legacy of Emperor Haile Selassie I.
For further information about Fairfield House please visit www.fairfieldhouse.org .
