A COUPLE who each battled cancer are hoping that townsfolk are ready to be ‘pretty in pink’ for a major fundraiser later this month.

Howard and Christine Warren are aiming to raise thousands of pounds for Rosemere Cancer Centre to pay tribute to doctors and nurses who helped them with their own struggles.

Last year Howard, 73, got the all-clear after undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer, and Christine also battled cancer several years ago.

And now the pair, of Stanley Mount, Bacup, are gearing up for a ‘Pink Cancer Day’, at the town’s cricket club, to continue on their charity mission.

Retired lift engineer Howard said: “There will be seven artists and a DJ performing and we want everyone who comes to wear something pink.”

Guitarist John Grogan, Peter Fell, punk legends The Riflemen of War, singers Rachel, Francesca, Rachel Spencer and Helen Redmond, alongside DJ Chris and the Britannia Coconutters, will be making appearances on Sunday, September 28, from 1pm at the Laneside Lane venue.

Great-grandmother Christine, 63, who has been involved with events which have raised £15,000 for the Preston-based cancer treatment centre, added: “We are also looking for local firms to become involved so we can stage a silent auction — we’ve already had some vouchers provided by Trevor Adams Studios in Accrington, which was a great start.”

Rossendale MP Jake Berry has already pledged to provide an auction prize and companies and other organisations are being urged to get in touch.

Last year the couple raised more than £2,500 for Rosemere with a ‘onesie party’ at the cricket club and want to to beat that total this time around.

Would-be supporters can call the Warrens on 01706 878539 or 074434 66523, to offer prizes for the auction or a proposed raffle.