PENARTH Pier Pavilion is set to host a fundraising charity concert starring former Catatonia singer Cerys Matthews and opera star Bryn Terfel tonight (December 18).

The festive evening, which will also feature Welsh operatic soprano Rebecca Evans, has been organised by Shelter Cymru vice president Samantha Maskrey.

The concert, which sold out in less than a week, will raise valuable funds to support Shelter Cymru’s work to prevent homelessness across Wales.

Samantha Maskrey said: “In 2011, for Shelter Cymru’s 30th birthday, we held a very successful concert at St David’s Hall in Cardiff and all the artists enjoyed the event so much we said that we would get everyone together again.

“It has taken some time to bring the three together again but everyone is looking forward to the evening.”

The event is being supported by Wales & West Housing.

Kathy Smart, Chair of the Board at Wales & West Housing, said: “Shelter Cymru is a charity we work very closely with throughout the year and we are very pleased to support such a special evening.”

John Puzey, director of Shelter Cymru, said: “Events such as this are vital in enabling us to help an ever increasing number of families in Wales to find and keep a secure home. We are fortunate to have such high profile and talented supporters who are able to put this concert together for us.”

Samantha Maskrey added: “My husband Robert and I have supported Shelter Cymru for many years and the Christmas Concert has always been close to our hearts. This year we feel very blessed, not only by the support of these wonderful artists but also the opportunity to use the magnificent Penarth Pavilion.

“I knew with this amazing line-up that tickets would sell quickly, I didn’t realise we would be completely sold out in a week!

“It will be a memorable evening for all, but we won’t forget that our aim is to help those less fortunate than ourselves over Christmas.”