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Lancaster show paying tribute to renowned radio presenter raises estimated £2,500

Tuesday, 16 May 2023 08:36

By Greg Lambert X @greglam72

Hannah Morris singing at 'A Night for Simon' with an image of Yakkers and Bob Bailey in the background

An estimated £2,500 has been raised from a special show paying tribute to a renowned radio presenter and musical performer.

The night of music, dance and comedy was held at the Lancaster Grand Theatre on Saturday in tribute to Simon Yaxley, raising money for the theatre's Grand Foyer Appeal.

Known as ‘Yakkers’, the BBC Radio Cumbria presenter died suddenly last December at the age of 53.

Simon is pictured below, image from the BBC.

Simon was also a keen performer and supporter of local theatre, playing leading roles in many productions by amateur dramatic societies across the Lancaster district and in Cumbria.

He was also a great supporter of St John’s Hospice Choir (pictured below), hosting many of their concerts that has raised thousands of pounds.

Bob Bailey, one of the organisers of 'A Night for SImon', said money was still coming in but he thought the total raised would be up to £2,500.

"It is testament to how respected and loved Simon was that nearly 100 people from seven theatre groups and as young as 12 were involved in the production and performance of a special night for a special friend," said Bob.

"The night was a perfect blend of everything that Simon loved and every penny made on the night is being donated to the Lancaster Grand Foyer Appeal, something Simon, as a member of Lancaster Footlights, was passionate about.

"Every performance was a perfect tribute to him and had the audience captivated throughout.

"Hannah Morris singing Freya Ridings ‘Lost Without You’ whilst images of Simon on outside broadcasts and in his many character roles were projected onto a screen, was a particularly poignant and emotional moment.

"We all miss him but celebrate the life he had and the joy he gave us both on and off the stage."

Related Story: INTERVIEW: Close friend shares memories of much-loved radio presenter ahead of Lancaster tribute show - Beyond Radio

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