Tim Burgess: Charlatans star becomes homeless charity patron

Tim Burgess got involved in the cafe after meeting its owner at a music festival

Indie music star Tim Burgess has become patron of a charity he has helped raise thousands of pounds to buy cups of coffee for the homeless.

The Charlatans singer has joined the Paper Cup Project after various stints serving up hot drinks at its Liverpool cafe.

The cafe opened in 2021 and ran a scheme inviting customers to buy coffee for vulnerable people.

Burgess said it was "an honour to be asked to become patron".

The singer, who has worked several shifts at the Queens Square cafe over the past two years, said: "It's a fantastic project and I'm looking forward to helping out.

"Michelle and the team are brilliant.

"We have some plans so let's see what works out. I'll definitely pick up another shift when I'm next around."

Michelle Langan said the cafe was grateful for the singer's help

The star got involved after meeting founder Michelle Langan at the Kendal Calling music festival.

Ms Langan said: "It's a dream come true for us to have Tim joining us as a patron.

"He has been a great supporter, and has really helped to raise the profile of our small charity.

"We love it when he comes in to help out in the shop, bringing together coffee and music royalty for a good cause. We feel very lucky to have him on board."

Burgess joins fellow patrons Frank Cottrell Boyce, the Bootle-born screenwriter, and actor Andrew Lancel.