A CONCERT to raise funds for the Roy Castle cancer charity is to be held in the late entertainer’s home town.

Holmfirth Inner Wheel Club is holding a Band and Choir Concert in Holmfirth Parish Church and all the proceeds are to go to The Roy Castle Cancer Research UK Fund.

And Roy’s widow Fiona will introduce the event next Saturday (start 7pm).

“We have been fortunate in that Mrs Fiona Castle OBE, the widow of Roy, is coming to introduce the event,” said Holmfirth Inner Wheel spokeswoman Mrs Maureen Smelt.

“Josephine Swallow, president of our club is the widow of Alan Swallow who was a cousin of Roy Castle, and their grandfather was a founder member of Hade Edge Band,” said Maureen. “It is Hade Edge Band who are performing at the concert along with Hade Edge Community Choir. They are giving their services to the memory of Roy, one of the noted sons of our valley, and to help the charity fund.

“Many showbusiness personalities, who were friends of Scholes-born Roy Castle are giving their services to this year’s Cancer Research Fundraising by performing at events in different areas of the country.

“We are extremely honoured to have Mrs Castle giving her time to help us as The Roy Castle Cancer Research Fund is the main charity the Holmfirth Inner Wheel Club are raising money for during the year.”

Holmfirth Inner Wheel Club was formed more than 72 years ago. Over the years it has raised funds to support national and local charities and help local groups and individuals such as schools, Scouts and Guides.

Tickets for The Band and Choir Concert, priced £6.50, are on sale at Holmfirth Tourist Information Centre and from Inner Wheelmembers.