A SELL-OUT concert at the Grand Theatre, Blackpool, has raised much-needed cash for the Victoria Hospital MRI scanner appeal.

Campaigners are now almost halfway to their target of £1.9m for the life-saving equipment, which is used to detect early signs of cancer.

The concert on Sunday (April 27) featured performances of Gilbert and Sullivan classics by former members of the D'Oyly Carte company.

The evening raised a magnificent £18,000 from sponsorship and tickets.

Delighted appeal co-ordinator Elaine Fossett said: "It was a superb night."

Elaine is also auctioning a 50-year-old D'Oyly Carte programme, from her personal collection, which she hopes will raise more cash for the appeal.

It has already attracted two prospective buyers who are pledging around £125.

Despite the appeal's many successes so far, Elaine warns campaigners will need to redouble their efforts in coming months.

"There has been a lot of interest in the appeal so far and we will need to sustain it in coming months."

Enterprising Terry Masterson of Blackpool and Alan Douglas of Preston have organised a car boot sale to raise money for the appeal.

It will take place on Sunday, May 4, and Bank Holiday Monday on land at Little Thornton close to the River Wyre Hotel.

There will be room for 600 cars and will cost £6 to set up a stall.

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