Cancer patient to rock for charity

Wednesday 28th March 2012

Prostate cancer patient John Callis is preparing to Rock Against Cancer and raise thousands of pounds to fight the disease.

John, known as Grubby to his friends, will be holding the Rock Against Cancer concert at the King's Arms in All Cannings, Wiltshire, to support Cancer Research UK, Above And Beyond and the Parish of All Cannings.

The 53-year-old, from Beechingstoke, was inspired to help Cancer Research UK after he, his brother and a friend were all diagnosed with cancer within weeks of each other.

John said: "About three years ago my brother was diagnosed with prostate cancer. My wife Cheryl made me go for a blood test and my results came back positive as well, this was a big blow to our friends and family. A good friend of mine, Andy Scott, was diagnosed positive shortly after myself.

"This brought home to me how common prostate cancer is, and I decided to put on a concert at my local pub.

"Myself and Andy are still in the process of fighting prostate cancer and felt that we wanted to raise awareness and encourage friends and colleagues to have regular checks."

Acts including Midge Ure, The Dave Kelly Blues Band, and The Wurzels are taking part in the concert.

Melanie Skinner, Cancer Research UK's area volunteer manager for Bristol, Bath and Wiltshire, said: "We are absolutely delighted that John has decided to take on such a great challenge to raise money for Cancer Research UK."

The concert starts at noon on May 26. Tickets are £42.50 for adults, and £25 for under 14s.

For more information visit http://www.concertatthekings.co.uk.

---