Talented acts took to the stage at Lowther Pavilion, Lytham, as part of a fundraising event for little Calum Burdon, who suffers from a rare genetic disorder dubbed "child Alzheimer's".

Calum, of Freckleton, is one of only 54 children in the UK with Niemann-Pick Disease Type C, which can lead to loss of mobility, cause seizures and result in full-blown dementia before the sufferer reaches their teens.

More than 100 people turned out for the concert, compered by former Grumbleweed Tony Jo and organised by Calum's parents, Emma and Carl.

Mrs Burdon, 25, said: "It was fantastic. The acts that came and donated their time were superb. We'd just like to say thank you to everyone for supporting us."

The concert raised £2,400, which will be donated to the Niemann-Pick Group, a charity which supports families and research into the little-known condition.

The audience clapped and swayed to the sound of Denise Nolan belting out some classic hits. Miss Nolan said: "My mother had Alzheimer's. It's the most horrendous disease.

"The thought of it affecting a little boy is so dreadful.
"There was no question about not getting involved in the fundraiser."

The line-up of entertainment also featured Lytham Academy of Theatre Arts (LATA), singer Tracey Jordan, Tony Martin from The Kings of Swing, comedians Kurtis King, Bob Lawrence and Dusty Young, magician Brian Sefton and Calum's dad, who sang under his pseudonym Carl Henry.

For the full story see Tuesday's Gazette