A MAN from Walshaw who set up a music festival in memory of his wife has completed his fifth event - with more than £50,000 now raised in the popular events.

Steve Rogers has completed his latest music festival in memory of his wife Ange, who died in April 2015 after suffering with blood cancer.

Steve, a founder member of the Steve Ferringo Band, was also diagnosed with brain cancer just a month after Angela’s death and underwent successful treatment.

He stages the Ferringo Fest every spring along with fellow musicians to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and a blood cancer charity, NorthCare.

Steve said: “It’s all about doing something to support others going through cancer.

“I remember when Ange was being treated, we’d be sitting in corridors waiting for a long time and dealing with all the feelings of worry and uncertainty.

“If I can help raise a few bob by doing what I love for people in the same situation then I feel I’m doing something to help.

“I know how very hard those times are.

“I am very lucky to have a great team of friends without whom I wouldn’t be able to do all of this.”

Ferringo Fest, which was held at Elton Vale Sports Club, was attended by Bury mayor Shaheena Haroon and her husband, Raja Haroon Khan.

Macmillan Cancer Support fundraising manager, John Rullo, said: “Ferringo Fest is always so fantastically well supported.

“It was great to see everyone back together enjoying themselves and raising much-needed funds.

“Steve is very aware of the challenges people face when going through treatment. We are incredibly grateful to him for all his hard work.”

Plans are already underway for Ferringo Fest 2023 scheduled for late May next year.