A couple who were “always having a laugh” are the inspiration behind a charity comedy night in Sudbury.

East Anglian Daily Times: Tony's parents, Mick and Carol West.Tony's parents, Mick and Carol West. (Image: Contributed)

Tony West, 28, lost both his parents - Michael and Carol West - within weeks of each other about five years ago.

His father, 55, who was known as Mick, had inoperable cancer, while he said his mother died “of a broken heart” the day before his funeral.

Mr West, a father-of-two, has staged football matches in the past for Macmillan Cancer Support following the help they gave the family, but this time the funds will also be going to St Nicholas Hospice Care.

The comedy night is taking place at Delphi Social Club on Saturday, October 27, with doors opening at 6.30pm and the show starting at 7pm.

Mr West, who will co-host the evening with Suffolk Punch Comedy Club, said: “The inspiration behind it was my mum and dad were always laughing and joking and having a laugh against each other. They liked their comedy.

“When we got told my dad was diagnosed with cancer I did football events which was more for my dad but when both my parents passed away I thought for a while about doing a comedy night and this year I put words into action.”

Mr West said his mum and dad enjoyed comedians including Jim Davidson and Lee Evans, and the TV sitcom ‘Mrs Brown’s boys’.

He said despite the difficulties the family faced, his parents still managed to see the lighter side of life.

His mother, who had been recovering from a stroke, passed away on January 7, 2014, soon after his father’s death on December 16, 2013.

He said: “The hospice was really good with my mum when my dad died and Macmillan supported dad and the family.”

Mr West’s first charity football match saw about 80 people turn up and raised about £500 for Macmillan.

Previously, he said the work the charity does makes a “dramatic difference – just in the way they talk to people and understand the situation”.

Tickets for the comedy night cost £15 or £10, depending on the seats.

They can be purchased by calling Mr West on 07826640860.

Anyone who is able to help with raffle prizes or donations should also call this number.