Gareth Richards’ Edinburgh Fringe show has been turned into a benefit for his family.

Gareth, who died last months after a motorway crash arranged his Free Fringe venue before he passed away.  Now his friends Danny Ward and Mark Simmons are booking a fund raising hour for his sons in the slot he would have had, 4pm every day at the Whistlebinkies Bar, from 5th to 27th August on the PBH Free Fringe.  

This is a non-ticketed event, where the audience will be encouraged to donate cash into the bucket or via contactless payment on the way out.

All proceeds for the show will go to the trust fund set up for Gareth’s sons which has already topped £45,000. You can donate here. 

Acts already confirmed to perform at A Show For Gareth Richards, which features a different line-up each day, include Adam Kay, Nick Helm, Iain Stirling, Jo Caulfield, Marcus Birdman, Rob Auton, Paul F Taylor, Matt Green, Joe Wells and Andrew White with more set to be announced including some amazing special guest surprises!

Simmons and Ward will henceforth sign off their Jokes podcast with the phrase “Be More Gareth”.  It will keep his spirit close and it’s also a cracking mantra for life – be more gentle, kind considered and brave no matter the cost.  It’s also applied to the writing of comedy too – be funnier.

Nominated for the best newcomer at the 2010 Fringe, Gareth was well known for performing songs with his distinctive electronic instrument, the Omnichord.

So raise a glass as we raise the roof to the much loved and greatly missed friend Gareth Richards.