HOMELESS CHARITY PATRON ROLE FOR ROBERT PLANT

Musician Robert Plant has become patron of a charity supporting homeless people.

The Led Zeppelin singer signed up with Wolverhampton-based Good Shepherd after inviting it to publicise its work at his concert in the city last year and visiting its headquarters.

The star's contribution includes supporting the creation of two paid trainee roles for people with experience of homelessness.

The singer, who lives in Worcestershire but was brought up in the Black Country, said he wanted to support the charity's focus on "rebuilding confidence, self-esteem and spirit.”

The Good Shepherd's chief executive, Tom Hayden, said the group sensed the "enthusiasm and passion" Plant had for wanting to help people.

“He asked a lot of searching questions, which was great, because it really helped get to the heart of what we do in helping people not just find a temporary solution to issues such as homelessness and food poverty, but more sustained support where they can rediscover their strengths and pursue their dreams."

He added that the new trainee scheme would offer paid employment, a recognised qualification and training opportunities to progress in a career.

Plant has a strong connection to the area were he grew up, is a vice-president of Wolverhampton Wanderers, and has played a number of gigs in the city, most recently in December.

He is currently on tour with his band, Saving Grace, before heading to America to link up with bluegrass singer Alison Krauss and join Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan on the Outlaw Tour.

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HOMELESS CHARITY PATRON ROLE FOR ROBERT PLANT

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