Blackpool musician stages concert in memory of father-in-law

Blackpool musician, Colin Appleby is inviting local residents to Coast Town Events Ska concert on Saturday 15 September at the Blackpool Winter Gardens, to raise funds for the Stroke Association.

Colin, 50, director of Coast Town Events, was inspired to raise funds for the charity in memory of his father-in-law, Derek, who passed away after having a stroke. Derek had his first major stroke in 2004 and fully recovered, but sadly went on to have a number of strokes from July 2017 to his passing in August 2018.

From 12:00pm until midnight, the concert will include performances from eight SKA bands from across the UK and Europe. Guests will also enjoy three different DJ sets.

Colin said: “Derek had a stroke on the day of another live music event I was hosting at the Winter Gardens. It was a huge shock to the family, we couldn’t believe it.

“That’s when we decided to raise money for the charity. He was really pleased that we had chosen the Stroke Association for the event in 2018. We even arranged for Derek to come up onto the stage to say a few words about the impact of stroke. But sadly, this was not to be.

“The Stroke Association is a fantastic charity which helps so many stroke survivors across the UK to adjust to their life after stroke. I’m really looking forward to the concert, it is going to be a great day and will all help to raise vital funds for a very important cause.”

Sian Thomas, Community and Events Fundraiser for the Stroke Association, said: “There are around 1.2 million people in the UK are living with the devastating impact of stroke. We’re incredibly grateful to Colin and his team of helpers for their continued support for the Stroke Association and for organising the concert.

“A stroke can happen to anyone at any time and it turns lives upside down in an instant. With the support of people like Colin, we can reach out to more stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives.”

Tickets cost £20. For tickets and more information, visit www.coasttownevents.co.uk or contact Coast Town Events on 01253 749761.

For more information about stroke, visit www.stroke.org.uk or call our helpline on 0303 303 3100.