'We're looking forward to a great day' - New event in honour of Lytham man who died suddenly 5 years ago
A charity set up in memory of a Lytham man following his sudden death five years ago is launching a new fundraising event.
Ralph Roberts died on January 3, 2021 of a rare condition, sarcoidosis, which was only diagnosed post mortem.
The Live Like Ralph Community Interest Company was set up by his parents Neil and Fiona with the aim of providing a legacy in all his areas of interest and passion - including skateboarding, cycling, music, art and fashion – and has raised more than £200,000 as well as winning awards including Coastal Radio Charity of the Year, BIBA Business of the Year for Leisure and Tourism and Health and Wellbeing Award at the Fylde Community Sports Awards.
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On Thursday, April 2, it is staging an afternoon and evening of music, community and fundraising, with all proceeds helping support young people explore their passions through cycling, skateboarding, art, music and more.
It’s at the Station Hotel in Lytham and starts from 3 to 5pm with a fun family session including a Mickey and Minnie Mouse appearance and a chocolate tombola.
From 5pm to 8.30, there will be Teenage Battle of the Bands, featuring local teenage bands battling it out to be crowned the next Oasis.
After that, from 9pm, is an evening session for adults featuring Enfield – one of the North West’s best Mod band, supported by Peloton.
Entry is £5 and Neil said: “We look forward to a great day.
“Ralph was a positive and kind person who lived life to the full in the 26 years he was with us. He had so many interests and the objective of Live Like Ralph has always been to get people, especially young people, off screens and doing activities they can be passionate about.”
LLR has supported many young local music performers by paying for instruments, studio time, video production or giving them a platform at events including the annual Ralphfest at Park View 4U.
The charity has also set up cycling events including the Tour de Ralph, a three-day coast to coast run from Scarborough to Lytham taking place June 12 to 14 this year.
Further details of all the charity’s events at www.LiveLike Ralph.com