United in Music wows the crowds

Picture by Mike Robey Photography

Musicians rocked the house for charity when they staged York and Selby’s second United in Music gig.

Will Robey and Ian Surgenor, of prominent local bands Superlicks and Sister Madly, led a full bill of musical talent to raise more than £5,500 for York Against Cancer through the concert at the Riccall Regen Centre.

Playing to a full house, United in Music featured bands including Sister Madly, York Turnpike Trust, Black Dogs, Copowt, The Superlicks and the Mix.

It was also a first outing for Will’s 12-year-old daughter, Isabella, who performed with her new band, Bella and The Blacktones.

The show follows the hugely successful York Rocks Against Cancer event organised by Ian, and he and Will now work together as part of YAC promotions to put on events to raise money for York Against Cancer.

Will’s mum Hannah, known as Ann, sadly died from cancer last year, making York Against Cancer a cause close to his heart. He said: "With the loss of my mother, I feel the need to do something positive.

“My gift is music and if I can entertain people while raising much-needed funds for this fantastic local charity, then I feel that I have made a difference to someone’s life.”

 Ian, who has been actively fundraising for York Against Cancer with many musical events over the past five years, said: "We have raised almost £70,000 by putting on these events, and with the help of Will and our fellow organiser Martin Lettin, we will continue to organise these shows as long as people keep supporting us.”

Julie Russell, general manager of York Against Cancer, said the concert had been a great success. “It was a wonderful evening and everyone had such a good time,” she said. “It’s another massive contribution to our work and we can’t thank Will and Ian enough.”

United in Music was sponsored by local businesses including Copmanthorpe Motors, Plonkers wine bar, The treehouse in Selby, The Green tree, The Carlton Tavern, The Hare & Hounds in Riccall,  Mark Richardson Motors, Cofo Homes, Kutchenhaus and Skipwith Station.

"Without the generosity and support of our sponsors, these shows would not be the success they are," said Will. “Keep an eye out for more events from YAC promotions in 2019!”