Raise the roof for music-man Mick

A MEMORIAL concert for a talented musician who died in Spain is hoping to bring together friends to celebrate his life and also raise money for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice on Tuesday.

Oldhamer Mick Manion died on October 17, aged 57, after a battle with cancer.

The musician, who moved away 10 years ago, was well-known in Royton with several bands spanning three decades from the 1970s, particularly as part of the group Nothing To Lose.

He went on to play all over the world including tours in Germany and the United Arab Emirates before settling as a popular entertainer on the Costa Blanca.

Now friends and former band mates, including brother-in-law Paul Brierley, are hoping to get people together to celebrate his life and raise money for Dr Kershaw’s.

Paul, who grew up with Mick, said: “I guess you could say Mick was a true troubadour, always having a song ready to pull out of the bag.

“He was a larger-than-life character, incredibly popular in the area and he was a great friend to me for more than 40 years.

“When he died last month, few people were able to attend the memorial in Spain so we are hoping to get together to share music and our memories of Mick. I want to ask all his friends to come along at take part as it will be a brilliant way to remember him.”

The event, at the Railway Hotel, Royton, will involve live music from a variety of genres including Mick’s favourite pop, rock and folk songs.

Wonderful
Admission is free but there will be a collection and raffle with all the money collected on the night going to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

Paul added: “Dr Kershaw’s is a wonderful organisation and most people know someone who has been helped by the work they do there.

“If we raise a few hundred pounds or so for the charity while we enjoy live music and remember Mick, it will be a great success.”

Friends of Mick’s are invited to turn up for the concert from 8pm.