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A CHARITY team that supports cancer sufferers and their families is preparing to stage a huge fundraising picnic concert in north Hampshire.

The second Ellington @ Wellington Summer Music Picnic, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, will take place at Wellington Riding, in Heckfield, on Saturday, July 26.

As well as live music, from musician and musical director Laurie Holloway and his Trio, the picnic and concert will feature a hog roast, bar and a fantastic fireworks finale.

Last year, the event raised more than £5,500 for the Macmillan charity, and organisers hope that the fundraising total from this year's event will be even greater.

Rob Lawrenson, community fundraiser for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: "Preparations are going really well. The event is mainly organised by Basingstoke volunteers who want to do something for Macmillan, as they have had a personal connection with the charity.

"Everyone knows Macmillan Cancer Support because of the Macmillan cancer nurses, but the charity offers a whole host of other services to people affected by cancer.

"We don't just help the patient. We also provide information and support for their friends, family and carers.

"We are also a campaigning charity, involved in campaigns for free hospital parking and prescriptions - things that would really make a difference to cancer sufferers."

Mr Lawrenson added: "The Basingstoke volunteers came up with the idea of Ellington @ Wellington and it's really grown since last year. Laurie Holloway, best known for being the band leader on Parkinson, is our main act and some of the artists who performed last year are coming back, so it should be a great event."

As well as Mr Holloway, singer and entertainer Kenny Lynch and singer and saxophonist Becki Biggins will perform at the open-air event. Other performers include Simon Ward and his vibrant Innovations Jazz Orchestra, ladies barbershop chorus The Barberettes and award-winning community youth steel pan orchestra Sounds of Steel.

Tickets for the family-friendly event cost £18 for adults and £5 for children.

Gates open at 4.30pm and the music starts at 5pm. The event is due to finish at about 10.30pm.

For tickets, or more information, call 01252 842100 or visit www.ellingtonatwellington.co.uk

12:46pm Wednesday 16th July 2008

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