A charity gig 50 Years in the making – celebrating music, memories and brotherhood

When teenage brothers from Dengie, Essex first picked up their instruments, they had no idea their passion would span five decades. “Being young teenagers, we wanted to start our own band,” said Julian May. “We knew of another local band, T-Bone Steak, and were inspired by them. We didn’t look back, and 50 years later, we’re still writing songs and producing music.”

This year, Julian and his bandmates marked both the band’s 50th anniversary and the memory of Michael, their brother and band’s drummer, who sadly passed away in 2019 – with a very special charity concert. The event was a heartfelt celebration and thank you to Broomfield Hospital’s Heybridge Ward staff, who cared for Michael.

“The care was excellent from the ward team,” said Julian. “He came out and lived for another year before receiving palliative care. We wanted to show our gratitude in the best way we knew how, through music.”

Joined on stage by their old friends, T-Bone Steak, the band’s celebratory gig raised an incredible £1,070 in Michael’s memory. The donation will directly support staff and patients on Heybridge ward, helping to make a difference for others receiving care there.

Clair Dade, Fundraising coordinator for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity gratefully accepted the May family’s donation on behalf of Heybridge ward staff, she said: “We are deeply grateful to Julian, his band, and everyone who supported this wonderful concert. Their generosity in donating £1,070 to Heybridge Ward is truly inspiring. Thank you for turning your music and memories into lasting impact for our patients at Broomfield Hospital”.

Following their successful fundraising event, The Mays have expressed their thanks to family, friends and fans who attended the gig, which ultimately allowed them to raise funds for the Heybridge Ward at Broomfield Hospital.