Let’s rock!

Nathan Dawson, left, is organising “Rock v Cancer” on May 2 with the help of pal Kieron McMahon.

Losing six relatives to cancer has inspired a teenager to organise a charity rock gig to help fight the disease.

Nathan Dawson (17), from Shaw, was desperate to do something after his great-grandad John Mastin (88) and other close members of his family died from the disease.

Being a musician, Nathan decided a fund-raising concert would be the best idea. The Crompton House student has gathered a line-up of bands and artists for the event at Gullivers in Manchester’s Northern Quarter on May 2.

Nathan’s friends and fellow musicians have rallied to help, none more so than his friend Kieron McMahon, who regularly raises money for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in memory of his mother Joan, who died there when he was nine.

“Kieron is playing an acoustic set at the concert, and it’s great to have him on board because he’s done these sort of things before and he’s helping me with the organising,” said Nathan.

“My great-grandad died when I was 15 and I wanted to do something then, but I didn’t have the courage or the know-how to go about it, but when my auntie died last year I felt more confident I could make it happen.

To buy the £7 tickets to support Nathan’s cancer-fighting fundraiser or to offer help, go to the “Rock vs Cancer” Facebook page. You can also get tickets on the door at the event.

twitter: @GillPottsOC