Emma Rule has been presented a ‘Points of Light’ award by Prime Minister Theresa May in recognition of her fundraising work for Crisis, the national charity for homeless people.

Emma created Musicians Against Homelessness, a series of more than 100 gigs launched by former Oasis manager Alan McGee a year ago, to raise funds for Crisis and other homelessness charities, and provide gig opportunities for up-and-coming bands.

Featuring performances by members of the Sex Pistols, Happy Mondays, Buzzcocks and Cast, Musicians Against Homelessness has raised more than £43,000 in 2016 alone, bringing together more than 500 bands at 100 gigs, events and festivals all over the UK.

She says she was inspired to found her own campaign after volunteering at Crisis at Christmas and remains committed as she sees numbers of homeless people continuing to grow across the country.

The Prime Minister presented the award at a Crisis reception at 10 Downing Street, held to help mark 50 years of the charity’s work.

Every week day the Prime Minister recognises an inspirational volunteer with the Daily Point of Light award.

In a personal letter to Emma, Prime Minister Theresa May said:

“Through Musicians Against Homelessness, you have used your creativity to inspire thousands of volunteers and individuals across the music industry to fundraise for Crisis. You should be proud of your innovative work, which is simultaneously helping homeless people as well as giving a platform for unsigned music artists.”

Emma Rule said:

“I’m proud to have the work of Musicians Against Homelessness recognised by the Points of Light award and to be here to mark Crisis’ 50^th year. The project’s aims are to get people talking and taking action on homelessness through music and community, and I feel that we have achieved this since launching last year.

“With homeless figures expected to rise over the next few years we will remain committed to helping Crisis and the other charities we support to continue with their invaluable work to end homelessness for good. I’d like to dedicate this award to our incredible team of volunteer managers that are working tirelessly and selflessly across the UK to raise awareness of homelessness and much needed funds to help people who are struggling with homelessness.”

Chief Executive at Crisis Jon Sparkes said:

“Emma first came to us as a volunteer at Crisis at Christmas. She has since gone on to create Musicians Against Homelessness which has been a phenomenal success and that’s all come down to Emma’s continual commitment to ending homelessness. It’s just incredible to see her hard work and dedication recognised in this way and we are eternally grateful for all she has done for Crisis.

“With homelessness continuing to rise, the money and awareness raised is all the more important and will be a great help in our mission to end homelessness for good.”