York musicians make brave mum's night

A brave York mum and her daughter are looking forward to an evening to remember thanks to the organisers of one of our major fundraising events.

York Rocks Against Cancer organisers Will Robey and Ian Surgenor bought Gill Taylor and daughter Rachael VIP tickets to the concert featuring leading York bands and the Emmerdale cast after discovering what it would mean to them.

Non-smoker Gill, 48, of Skelton, was diagnosed with lung cancer last year, but four days before she was due to have surgery, she was taken ill and could no longer have her operation. She had radiotherapy instead, but tests in January showed she still had cancer and chemotherapy was now her only option.

Single mum Gill said she and Rachael, 21, were having a tough time because of the diagnosis, and money was tight. After nine years without a holiday, a much-needed break to Dublin fell through for them because of snow at Leeds-Bradford Airport and the pair had not been able to afford insurance.

To cheer herself and Rachael up, Gill entered a competition to win VIP tickets for York Rocks, with the chance to meet the Emmerdale stars and attend the after-show party.

As part of the competition Gill had to explain why she wanted to support York Against Cancer, and her reasons melted the hearts of Ian and Will, who got in touch to tell her that they were going to buy her and Rachael two VIP tickets.

 “I have never been to York Rocks and have always wanted to go, but money’s always been an issue,” said Gill. “When they got in touch, they said I hadn’t won but they were going to give me tickets – I was over the moon.  I want to make memories for Rachael, so this is so lovely.  It will be massive for us.”

Ian said: “Gill’s story reduced me and Will to tears. We decided to buy them the tickets ourselves, so that the charity would still get the money. We’re looking forward to seeing them at the concert and we’ll make sure they have an amazing night!”

Taking part in York Rocks are local acts including The Mix, CopOwt and Attitude Dance Club, plus headliners the 5.15’s. It also features members of York favourites Sister Madly and The Superlicks Party Band as the Rocks House band, alongside Main Street, a band made up of members of the Emmerdale cast.