A FATHER and son in Weston who have both fought cancer have brought more than 30 top musicians from across the country together to record a charity CD. Jonathan Manners, aged 27, and his 65-year-old father Chris, were diagnosed with cancer exactly a year
A FATHER and son in Weston who have both fought cancer have brought more than 30 top musicians from across the country together to record a charity CD.Jonathan Manners, aged 27, and his 65-year-old father Chris, were diagnosed with cancer exactly a year apart from each other. Jonathan had testicular cancer, and Chris prostate cancer.Now recovering after surgery and intensive chemotherapy, they filled All Saints Church last weekend with professional and local musicians to produce a CD to raise money for Weston's branch of Cancer Research UK.The line-up of artistes includes former harpist to Prince Charles, Catrin Finch, organist at St Paul's Cathedral, Malcolm Archer, and Andrew Johnstone who composed the theme tunes to The Vicar of Dibley and Blackadder.Former St Paul's Cathedral choirmaster, Dr Barry Rose, also stepped in to help as producer. Dr Rose conducted the choirs for the Queen's silver jubilee service and for the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.The youngest member of the group is 15-year-old Worle Community School pupil James Parfitt, who plays the double bass.Jonathan, of Brean Down Avenue and Chris, who is the church's music director, have held carol services at the church in All Saints Road for the past nine years.During his final stages of cancer treatment, Jonathan hatched the plan to produce the CD featuring many of the carols sung during that time.Jonathan said: "I always intended that my tenth carol service would be my last and with the CD this year's carol service will be extra special. "Support from businesses and individuals has been truly generous. We are also grateful for being able to use the church free of charge."The CD, entitled What Sweeter Music, will be released in November. Priced £10 it will be available in shops and via www.whatsweetermusic.com
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