Actually Gay Men’s Chorus raises £2,252.85 for Sussex Beacon

Brighton & Hove's Actually Gay Men’s Chorus (AGMC) has announced it raised £1,505.82 for theSussex Beacon through its Christmas raffle and bucket donations at both performances of AGMC ’s 20th Anniversary Christmas concert, With Love Actually Xx , held in December atSt Mary’s Church , Brighton. This brings the total raised for theSussex Beacon duringAGMC 's 20th Anniversary year to £2,252.85!****

The funds will support the hospice’s vital work providing specialist, compassionate care for people living with HIV and LGBTQ+ individuals with complex health needs.

The Sussex Beacon is a Brighton-based hospice offering person-centred care for people living with HIV with multiple needs. In recent years, it has expanded to provide inclusive care for LGBTQ+ people with life-limiting and complex illnesses. While the hospice has been recognised with a Government award for excellence in care , public donations remain crucial, funding the majority of its services and enabling the delivery of compassionate, inclusive care.

Founded in October 2005, AGMC was created to provide a welcoming, joyful space for gay men and their allies to sing together, build friendships and connect through music, while sharing that joy with audiences beyond the LGBTQ+ community. Over two decades, the chorus has grown into a vibrant cultural force in Brighton & Hove, known for ambitious programmes and strong community engagement through performance and charitable support.

The Sussex Beacon holds a very special place in our community’s history and present.

Each year, AGMC members vote to select a Members' Chosen Charity, ensuring the chorus supports causes that resonate with its singers and values. In celebration of its 20th season , the chorus selected the Sussex Beacon - recognising the hospice’s historic role in HIV care and its continuing commitment to LGBTQ+ health and dignity**.**

Audience and critical response to With Love Actually Xx was overwhelmingly positive. In recent coverage, reviewer Brian Butler of Scene Magazine described AGMC concerts as a “polished gemstone of a choral evening,” praising both the chorus’s artistry and joy and positioning their performances among the very best of local musical life.

Alan Baser , Chair of AGMC, said: “The Sussex Beacon holds a very special place in our community’s history and present. We were honoured to support them during our 20th season, and we’re incredibly grateful to our audiences for helping us raise £1,500 through With Love Actually Xx. Their generosity directly supports care that is compassionate, inclusive and truly life‑changing.”

As AGMC enters its 21st year, it continues to champion LGBTQ+ visibility, community and creativity - bringing people together through ambitious performances, meaningful partnerships and charitable giving. The chorus also looks forward to a busy 2026 programme celebrating community, resilience and song.