TWO life-long friends are planning a musical extravaganza to raise money for a charity that was set up in memory of a young woman.
Michael Kellett, of Crown Street in Millom, has teamed up with childhood friend, Ben Smith, to organise a special music event in memory of his sister, Alex.
The 29-year-old died suddenly in November last year and family and friends have been fundraising in her memory ever since.
Mr Smith, 21, is originally from Millom but is now studying at Southampton Solent University and approached his friend with the idea.
He said: "I thought it would be nice to show my respect and thankfulness towards Michael and his family.
"Michael has been my best mate since I was small. I'm a day younger than him.
"I just mentioned it to Michael and he was up for the idea."
The pair have been busy securing a venue and calling in favours from bands and DJs across the area to raise as much money as possible for charity.
All proceeds will go to The Butterfly Charity, which was set up earlier this year by Miss Kellett's mother, Joan.
Each year the charity will raise money for different causes, with this year's donations going to the North West Air Ambulance and Millom First Responders.
When his friend suggested the idea of the event, Mr Kellett jumped at the chance to do something in memory of his older sister.
He said: "I thought it was a brilliant idea. It was brought up a long time ago but it's all just fallen into place nicely. People have been really great about it.
"And it's raising money for charity, which is a good thing to do."
The event will take place at The Knights in Millom from 3pm on Friday August 5 and will feature performances from The Chadelics, James Tyson, Hakara and many more.
Describing their feelings as being "nervous but excited", the pair are making their final preparations to pay a special tribute to Miss Kellett.
Mr Kellett said: "I wanted to do it for my sister. I think Alex would be proud of me – and Ben."
Read more:
A mother inspired by her daughter's "generous nature" launches new charity
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