Carolyn's Big Gig for charity is back

Carolyn Cross (Chair) & Stephanie Dagger (Local Fundraising Manager Cancer Research UK)

A regular fixture on the local cultural calender and organised by a Wigan couple, the event this year held at the Park Hall Hotel, Charnock Richard, is a real wallow in the hits of yesteryear - and all for a good cause too.

The brains behind it are John and Carolyn Cross from Standish whose first Big Gig was in 2010 and whose emotional motivation is to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Carolyn, who lost her mum to breast cancer, was diagnosed with a cervical tumor in 2002, at the age of 38, and underwent a hysterectomy. In 2008, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and had further surgery to remove that too.

The 54-year-old mum-of-two, who has grown up boys Paul, 28, and Jack, 23, and three step-children John, Leanne and David, said: “I had surgery six weeks after my cancer diagnosis and was a big believer in staying positive.

“I’ve always made sure I talk about cancer. The more you talk about something the more you raise awareness.

“All through my treatment, I had amazing support from my family and friends. Now I’m determined to help raise money to make sure that others benefit from the amazing work carried out by the doctors, nurses and scientists the charity funds.”

The pair have been big supporters of the Race for Life over the years and hold an annual coffee morning in Mossy Lea, Wrightington, as well as the Big Gig.

Cancer Research gave Carolyn a special award for all her charitable efforts, which have now exceeded £70,000.

This year’s Big Gig musical line-up includes Dave Hefford and the Hot Rods, Lindibeth, Sounds Retro and Good Noise Inc and Friends. It is compered by Jo Jo.

John, a guitarist who used to play in the retro 60s band Rave On which played at the gigs, said: “We have a terrific line-up and hope many people will support what is a really worthy cause and fun night.”

The entertainment takes place in the Lancastrian Suite and runs from 7.30pm to 1am on Friday May 25. Cancer Research funds will be further boosted by a grand auction and raffle.

Tickets priced £8 are available by ringing 0771 457 4478.