A PARTY like no other will be thrown to celebrate the life of a Barrow rock 'n' roll fan who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Alan Griffiths, 63, had been fighting various types of cancer throughout the past eight years as well as suffering from heart disease but was just recently told his lung cancer could not be cured.

Hopeful

Rather than admit defeat, the father-of-three, who lives in Vernon Street, decided to do what he does best and throw a party to thank the 'fantastic' support he has received from the British Legion and Macmillan.

He said: "I'm not sad as I feel like I have had a brilliant life with no regrets.

"If it wasn't for friends and family perhaps I would have faded away two weeks ago.

"With that in mind, I thought I'd organise a 'Farewell Rockabilly' night to say thanks to all my family, friends and mates and throw a party no-one will forget."

Worthy causes

The former serviceman completed three tours in Northern Ireland in the 1970s as a driver in the Royal Corps on Transport.

At just 19 years old he experienced the horrors of war.

"The British Legion is a cause close to my heart.

"They have been fantastic.

"I have thought about all the good things recently, as well as my time in Ireland and I know exactly why the funds are so important for the legion."

As well as supporting the British Legion, Alan is also donating funds to Macmillan, who have been instrumental in advising and helping him since his diagnosis.

Music lovers

Rock 'n' roll fans from across the region are expected to turn up, with friends and fellow music-lovers from Carlisle, Preston, Lancaster and Sunderland having responded to the event.

Pete Fallon, a close friend of Mr Griffiths, has helped organise the party and secured two popular rockabilly bands, the Hayriders and Phil Haley and His Comments.

Former TA solider Mr Griffiths, said: "I have had a good life, it's been brilliant.

"I'm going out kicking and fighting."

The family man is thrilled with the response so far and hopes ticket sales and raffles can raise much-needed funds.

Tickets for the rockabilly night are £10 in advance or £12 on the night and families are more than welcome.

The event will be held at the Kill One in Duke Street, Barrow, on Sunday July 17, with doors opening at 5pm.