Murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence would have been smiling down on a star-studded concert in his memory last night, his mum Doreen said.
Rita Ora, Jessie J, Emeli Sande and Beverley Knight led the big-name cast of musical talent.
Tinie Tempah and Plan B also took to the stage at Unity – A Concert for Stephen Lawrence.
It marked 20 years since the 18-year-old was killed in a racist attack.
According the daily mirror an emotional Doreen said: “He would have loved this because he really loved music.
She then went on to say “He used to sneak off to concerts – but most of the time I didn’t know about it. He would have been very cheery to see this. It would have made his day if he could be here.
But we still look over our shoulder in this country, that’s certainly how I feel when I’m out on the street – and that has to change.
She continued “I’m always the optimist and this concert is a turning point. It’s wonderful. But I’d give it all up to have my son back.”
She added that she believed Stephen would be “smiling down” on the show at the O2 Arena in South East London.
There were a few surprises at the event including a performance from rapper Dizzee Rascal.
After hitting the stage, Jessie said: “I want to thank Doreen Lawrence. Not just for inviting me here tonight, but for making the world a better place.” Doreen was given a peerage this year for her tireless campaigning for justice and racial equality.
In 2012, Gary Dobson and David Norris were convicted of murdering Stephen. He was stabbed to death in Eltham, South East London, in 1993.Other stars on last night’s bill included Ellie Goulding, Ed Sheeran, Jamie Cullum, Rudimental, Jahmene Douglas and Rizzle Kicks. Proceeds from the concert will go to the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust.
To donate text SLCT20 followed by either £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 to 70070. Or visit www.stephenlawrence.org.uk/ for more details
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