Macmillan Rock and Roll Charity Gig

A former Hucknall resident is playing a charity gig and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for a cancer charity.

Ryan Jackson, 24, will take on Africa's highest mountain in September with the aim of raising £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He is also a member of a band that will play a charity gig in Eastwood, and is appealing for rock 'n' roll fans in the city to attend.

The former Hucknall National School pupil said: "I went to a Macmillan call centre on Friday.

"Seeing what they do is amazing, especially knowing how they help people who have family members with cancer.

"They provide a lot of help and someone to talk to. The more I find out the more I understand how important they are.

"So far I have raised over £1,100 and I am hoping the gig will take me as close as possible to reaching my goal."

Ryan, who now lives in Birmingham, was given the opportunity to do the climb by his employer, energy company npower.

Along with 13 of his colleagues and two directors at the company, the group are hoping to raise £50,000 between them ahead of the climb. To pull in extra support to reach his target, Ryan and fellow band members from Milo and the TT Shakers have organised the gig, on August 16, at the MFN club in Shipley Gate.

The band is made up of Ryan, who is the pianist; drummer Graham Naylor; bass player Simon Caldecott; lead singer and guitarist Adam Amer and his dad, also Adam Amer, who is a guitarist and the band's general manager.

Adam Amer junior, 21, who also attended the Hucknall National School, said he is more than happy to support the cause.

Mr Amer, who now lives in Guilford, said: "I know Ryan has been putting in the hard work and trying to promote the gig the best he can.

"It is good to help people in need and it is always exciting when we get back together in Nottingham."

When Ryan has reached his goal, npower – which works in partnership with the charity – will match the money raised, taking his individual total to £4,000.

Director of npower's domestic business in the UK, Roger Hattam , is also taking on the challenge.

He said: "We did the Yorkshire three peaks in preparation. I think for us it is really important to support Macmillan.

"Our employees are incredibly talented and innovative in the ways they raise the money. Ryan is putting his talents to good use. Watch out Bruce Springsteen!"

The gig will include special guest band The All Stars, made up of a selection of members from the original Golden Hammers, including Malcolm "The Duke" Allured who was one of the original two Showaddywaddy drummers.

Tickets are £5 and can be bought in advance by e-mailing Ryan.Jackson@npower.com or ryanmartynjackson@gmail.com. Doors will open at 7pm.

To support Ryan's cause and to make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/ryanmartynjackson.

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