Rochdale man organises 'Concert for Cancer'

Michael Taylor

A Rochdale man is helping to organise a rock concert to raise money for cancer.

Michael Taylor, 57, is in the process of organising the star studded event to be held in London in December.

Mr Taylor and his friend Dean Rees decided to hold the ‘Concert for Cancer’ gig following the deaths of their mothers, who were both cancer sufferers.

Mr Taylor promotes fan clubs for singers including sixties singer PP Arnold.

“The idea started when thinking why not do a rock concert and give the profits to cancer research. The idea started a few weeks back and it has slowly been building up to concert to be held in December. A venue is yet to be finalised but we have had all sorts of offers and it will be held in London,” said Mr Taylor.

He added: “Many bands have offered their services including Sweet Felicity Arkwright, The Quireboys, Small Fakers, Mollie Marriott, and Long Tall Shorty.”

To add to the fundraising Mr Taylor is also producing a CD with all proceeds going to cancer research.

Mr Taylor’s mother passed away in 1991, he said: "I think my mother would have been very proud that I am doing this for cancer research and also that I dedicated the CD to her and to all other people who have lost a loved one through cancer."

Mr Taylor has already done the artwork for the CD and the track listing and has many big names involved including PP Arnold, Noel Gallagher, Paul Weller, The Kaiser Chiefs and Ocean Colour Scene.

“I am really excited for this concert to happen and hope to achieve many more concerts to happen for cancer research. My aim would be to organise a concert as big as 'Live Aid' for cancer research.

“There are many people out there who have been devastated with the loss of their loved one's through cancer and I'm sure everyone would show their love and support for this event,” said Mr Taylor.

The main charity to benefit from the concert will be UCARE (Urology Cancer Research and Education) other charities include: Cancer Research UK, Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, the Prostate Cancer Charity and World Cancer Research Fund.