CONTRALTO Sidwell Reed, whose fine singing voice was a cultural plus around her adoptive Newton-le-Willows, certainly struck the right chord when she immersed herself into charity fund-raising.

Arriving from her native Cornwall with husband Denzil during the 1939-45 war, she immediately integrated herself into local life, turning her talents to raising funds for charities ranging from the Lifeboat Institution to Mencap, Age Concern, Macmillan Nurses and the NSPCC.

Various churches, hospices and residential homes also benefited from her efforts.

And now, Sid, as she was affectionately known to her countless friends, is to have her memory perpetuated in a most appropriate way.

Before her death last August (husband Denzil died four months later) she had begun to arrange her annual fund-raising concert at Lowton Civic Hall, and friends now intend to continue it in her name.

The Sidwell Reed Memorial Concert strikes up at 7.30pm tomorrow (Friday) featuring Golborne Brass Band, conducted by Geoff Williams, together with Mike and Julia Carroll presenting songs from stage and screen, and pianist, Danny Quinn. It's in aid of Macmillian Nurses and the RNLI; and tickets are modestly priced at £4 (ring Mary Parry on 01925 223453, or pay at the door).

My old chum Eric Rimmer, acting as co-ordinator, praises the Cornish contralto who made Newton her home. "She appeared in many concerts for the war effort and at various military camps in the district. She was also in demand as a soloist for both choir and operatic societies, playing many leading roles."

With Lowton Operatic and Dramatic Society, she served as performer, committee member and wardrobe mistress, and being a talented dressmaker designed and made complete wardrobes of costumes for many challenging musical shows.

He loyal service was rewarded by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association's long service medal.

CERTAINLY a rare spirit whose memory deserves to be perpetuated.