The family of a former district councillor from Melbourn who died from motor neurone disease has organised a charity music evening in her memory.
Since her mum Janice Guest’s death eight years ago, Erica Mansfield, her husband Bill and their family have raised thousands for the Motor Neurone Disease Association – and they are hoping to add to the total by throwing the a Raw Talent music event at The Plough in Shepreth.
Erica told the Crow: “We have raised more than £26,000 over the eight years we have had a tribute fund in memory of my mum Janice who sadly died from this terrible disease.
“It began with a drop foot and then it developed into mum being confined to a wheelchair. She developed a chest infection which lead to pneumonia, had to be ventilated permanently, lost the use of her limbs, and eventually she was unable to speak or eat.
“She spent 26 weeks at Papworth Hospital Respiratory Support & Sleep Centre where she received the most wonderful care, and sadly passed away in November 2010.
“By raising money we are hoping to be able to help find a cure for this disease and also help support people who are suffering.”
Janice was a wife to David and, as well as daughter Erica and son-in-law Bill, she had daughter Helen – married to Jeremy – and grandsons Ollie, 19, and 16-year-old Benj.
Erica said: “She would be celebrating her 70th birthday this July, so we wanted to do something special. She was always keen on a party with family and friends.
“Every year we arrange something special to raise money and awareness. It started with our sons Ollie and Benj organising a darts competition and has since included everything from running events to charity lunches.
“This year we are having a ‘raw talent’ event – which is signed music artists singing live – a barbecue and raffle at The Plough. We have sold 80 tickets so far and hope for more.
“We are very lucky that we have Ray Jones from TalentBanq who has kindly offered to compere the evening and organised the artists. Local businesses have sponsored the event and donated raffle prizes.”
Raw Talent takes place at the High Street venue from 7.30pm on Saturday, May 12.
Tickets cost £25 – including entry and barbecue. To get yours call 07956 075166 or email billmansfield238@hotmail.com.
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