Joe McElderry raises over £7000 for The Customs House after live streaming a concert online

On Monday, March 16, the South Shields venue decided that it was closing until further notice – following government advice to the public to avoid large gatherings.

Former X-Factor star, Joe McElderry took to Twitter on Tuesday, March 17 to announce that he was going to live stream a concert from The Customs House in a bid to raise money for the theatre.

A Go Fund Me page set up by the singer raised over £2,000 in a matter of hours.

Now, at the time of writing, the current total stands at over £7,300 with the public still being encouraged to donate.

Joe commented: “During this time of uncertainty many of my fellow theatre friends and industry workers have no income or work due to the recent coronavirus announcements.

“My home theatre The Customs House has been a hub for my development and many others in the region, as a young performer growing up in a small town.”

Customs House executive director, Ray Spencer praised Joe for this efforts: “I wasn’t surprised that one of the first people to pick up the phone was Joe, because he always steps forward and helps good causes.”

Fellow South Shields star, Jade Thirlwall of Little Mix tweeted her support saying: “can’t wait to watch this and donate. Proud to call you my friend Joe”

To donate go to: www.gofundme.com/f/joe-mcelderry-concert.