THE father of a popular Salisbury man who died suddenly last year has issued a thank-you following a sell-out event to launch a community fund in his son's name.

Andy Belk said his son Thom would have been "blown away" by the successful night of live music at Salisbury Arts Centre on Saturday, August 10.

Everything went to plan and the event, organised by Salisbury Live, saw 380 people pack into the venue to watch seven local acts perform.

All funds raised will go towards charity the Rose Gale Trust's Thom Belk Community Fund which helps young musicians to cover costs of hiring equipment or booking a studio.

Andy Belk with his daughter Charlotte Porter.Andy Belk with his daughter Charlotte Porter. (Image: Spencer Mulholland)

Mr Belk said: "From the family's point of view it was brilliant. It was just great to see so many people come out to support Thom.

"From a very early age Thom understood music to the point where he knew what it could do, where it could reach and how powerful it is. One thing it can do that politics and religion can't is bring people together."

Read more:​ Success as Thom Belk Community Fund launches at Arts Centre

Describing music as "a great leveller" and something which can "expand your life", Mr Belk insisted that music and its ideals must stay prominent in Salisbury.

"You never think your children will die before you," said Mr Belk.

"Thom and I were very close and by doing this it keeps Thom alive to continue to bring something to the community even though he can't physically do it."

Thom Belk.Thom Belk. (Image: Newsquest)

Seven acts played at the Arts Centre including Carsick, Signature Vision, Lump, Charmtype, The Helmets, CLS and Alex Morgan-Wardrop.

An "overwhelmed" Mr Belk wanted to thank everyone who supported the launch of the Thom Belk Community Fund, he said: "It was such a great night with such a great atmosphere and everyone really enjoyed themselves.

"We can't thank them enough."