AN emotional song inspired by the experiences of cancer patients is turning into a hit for country singer Sue James from Sale.

She began writing Shine after her mum Kathleen died of cancer 17 years ago prompting her to volunteer for the Neil Cliffe Centre, which is part of St Ann's Hospice.

It was four years ago that she finally recorded the song which has been performed by a number well-known choirs and adopted as a theme song by a Warrington-based children's charity. The song carries a message of hope and has received favourable reviews.

Sue said: "I've had the great privilege of meeting extraordinary and courageous people living with cancer. During a relaxation session I encouraged them to write down a few words about how they were feeling and this inspired me to complete the song..

"Seven members of my family have died from cancer and I was determined to raise funds, even in a small way because every penny counts. It's astonishing to see the goodwill of communities everywhere helping various charities in their own unique way."

Sue performed the song during a St John's Family Bash at the church on Brooklands Road, Sale, when she was joined on stage by singers of all ages, raising £1,200 for the Neil Cliffe Centre which has a Day Therapy supportive outpatients unit caring for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

* All proceeds from Shine go to charity. and Shine can be heard at shineforcharity.com.