The Cambridge art and mental health charity, Escape Artists, backed by Syd Barrett's sister Rosemary Breen as a tribute to her brother, has been the target of thieves who have stolen £17,000 of music equipment. The theft from the charity's van is a major setback for them as they prepare for The City Wakes - a celebration of Syd's music - which will be performed in Cambridge from October 22nd to November 2nd.

Rosemary made a plea in the Cambridge News: "It's dreadful. It was such a shock. Everything was going so well for the charity. This is a huge setback. If anyone out there can help we would be very pleased. If anyone has got guitars, PA equipment or instruments they can donate it would be fantastic. The City Wakes concert is going to be so exciting, but we need help."

To help the charity replace the stolen equipment call Matthew Taylor on 0207-655-0909 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . For more information visit their website at www.escapeartists.co.uk. To read the Cambridge News story in full, click here.