THE life of a talented Leyland musician who died of cancer is to be remembered at a free pop concert held in his honour.

Andy Sutton, of Hillbrook Road, Leyland, died in April aged just 33 after a six-week battle against the leukaemia.

The self-taught musician was a regular on the local band circuit, playing lead guitarist in the popular Gypsy Roadhog rock group. He also made appearance in rock bands Stadia and A Day Two.

Now his friends have decided to make sure his memory lives on in the only way they thought appropriate - by holding a concert in his honour.

They have organised Music For Life '98, which is due to be held at Leyland Motors Club, in Thurston Road, Leyland on Sunday, August 30.

Well-known local bands including The Waltons, China Street, The Hyperjax and popular Preston soul band The Commandments have all promised to play on the day which, it is hoped, will raise hundreds of pounds for leukaemia research.

Soloists Neil Hunt and Chris Bannister plus local double act Illegal and Berkshire based outfit Shine will also play at the eight-hour music fest. All those playing were friends of Andy.

Michael Langley, one of the event organisers, said they felt it was the only fitting tribute for Andy, a former Leyland St Mary's student.

He said: "Andy was very well known around the area and very well liked. It came as a great shock to everyone when he died in April.

"He would teach, play and write music so when we thought about doing something to remember him, a concert seemed the most appropriate idea."

The concert will be the climax after a fun day aimed at families. Preston North End's Deepdale Duck has promised to put in an appearance, while a bouncy castle, face painting and a DJ have all been pencilled in for the day.

Michael is still looking for donations for a raffle and sponsorship, which kicks off at 12 noon on August 30. Ring Michael on 01772 451597.

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