An emotional and upbeat concert in honour of a brave young woman suffering from cancer has raised £5,000 for charity.
Sing for Soph, at Thurston Community College on May 26, was organised for Sophie Claydon, 25, from Bury St Edmunds, who was diagnosed with kidney cancer in December.
Through numerous operations and treatments her strength has shone through.
To celebrate Sophie, and do something positive during this difficult time, two close family friends Victoria Beswick - known as Floss - and Tasha Barnes-Smith organised the concert in aid of two charities of Sophie’s choice - Teenage Cancer Trust and the Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust.
About 300 people came along to Sing for Soph, which featured award-winning band The Hot Shots - including Miss Barnes-Smith’s fiancé Travis Tanswell - Harmonise - with Miss Barnes-Smith and Mrs Beswick - and acoustic duo aCELLOstics.
Unfortunately, Sophie could not be at the concert due to ill health, but she watched it on a live feed. She said “I’m so sorry I wasn’t there. If I could have been there I would.
“It was so special to have everyone there for me. I just want to thank everyone who came along and donated money or a raffle prize, my family for helping out on the night and especially Tash and Floss who organised the whole thing.
“Tash and her fiancé even came to my hospital bed the next day to perform my very own Sing for Soph concert.”
Mrs Beswick said: “Sing For Soph was better than I could ever have hoped for. The support was incredible and the atmosphere electric.
As a performer you could feel the positivity of the audience on stage and we have had lovely comments from many who attended- including the main lady herself who was able to watch the show from hospital via a live weblink.”
Miss Barnes-Smith added: “Friday [May 26] was just incredible. The atmosphere was one of strength, unity and love for the bravest girl in the world. I know I can speak on behalf of all of us who performed and say that it was an incredible honour to represent Sophie and thank you so much to everyone that helped make it possible.”
To donate or order a DVD of the concert call 01473 823700 or email singforsoph@outlook.com
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