Organised by Summer Sundae Fringe Festival director Andy Black and Mercury reporter Gemma Peplow, the show will take place at Firebug, in Millstone Lane, on Saturday, April 24. It will be a preview to the Summer Sundae Fringe Festival, which features local acts performing at several city venues the night before the main festival gets under way.

Andy, who also co-runs Pineapster, said: "We're proud supporters of LOROS and keen to help them whenever we can. We never really need much of an excuse to have another party. This year marks the fifth birthday for the fringe festival so this is a really good way for us to showcase some of the finest acts we've put on in the last four years of Summer Sundae warm-up parties."

All proceeds from the night will sponsor Gemma's China trek in aid of the Mercury's LOROS appeal. The appeal has so far raised just under £198,000 for the charity and Gemma, who will complete the 120km trek with her sister, Nicki, in May, is hoping to collect at least £5,300 to add to the total.

She said: "I write music interviews for The Week so I thought it would be a good idea to put on a gig to help the cause. We've got some really great bands playing so it'll be a brilliant night and will hopefully raise lots of money for LOROS. Thanks to all the bands and Firebug, as well as Andy for organising it all."

Frank, from the hilarious Uncle Frank band and cult heart-throb act Fatal Star, is currently touring Europe with the rejuvenated Fun Lovin' Criminals. His music partner Na'im Cortazzi said: "The Frank only comes out in Leicester on very special occasions - usually only for personal favours and charity. A charity starts at home. We are delighted to confirm that both Uncle Frank and Fatal Star will be holding court for LOROS at the Firebug."

Autohype singer Seb Twigden said: "We are more than happy to play the gig because LOROS is a great organisation that cares for those that are very ill and close to the end of their lives."

Charlie Jones, singer with Charlie and the Martyrs, said: "I've done gigs for LOROS before and I'll be playing with some top-notch musicians and friends. It's always great when you know you're doing it for a good cause. Its a win-win situation really - people get out the house for a bit of quality music and a shandy and raise money at the same time."

How to get involved

Pineapster and The Week Presents - A Summer Sundae Fringe Showcase 2010, which will take place at the Firebug on Saturday, April 24. Entry is £5 on the door, with all proceeds going to Gemma's sponsorship fund for the Mercury LOROS Appeal.

For more information, e-mail Gemma at:gemmapeplow@leicestermercury.co.uk. To sponsor her, visit:www.justgiving.com/gemmapeplowLOROS