JOHN Cassells died before his first grandchild was born - but did survive long enough to discover hidden talents as an artist.

It was during his treatment as a day care patient at St Ann’s Hospice that the dad-of-six realised he was a dab hand at painting.

Grandson McKenzie was born a few weeks after John, a maintenance operative from Partington, died of prostate cancer at the age of 54 last September.

“John wanted so desperately to hang on so he could become a grandad when our daughter Emily gave birth but sadly didn’t make it,” said wife Angela, who is taking part in the Manchester Midnight Walk on Friday, June 21, in his memory.

Sons John, aged 23, and Luke, 18, will join their mum and up to 3,000 other participants in the 10k walk through Manchester city centre in aid of St Ann’s Hospice.

“John got so much enjoyment out of his sessions at the day care unit and had never painted in his life until then,” added Angela.

“He created some lovely paintings, a mosaic mirror and garden gnomes for the children for a memory garden we’ve created in our back garden.

“Without the support of the staff at the hospice we wouldn’t have been left such beautiful gifts to treasure and remind us of him every day. By doing the walk, I feel I’m able to give something back to the hospice and know my husband will be walking with us too, not just in our hearts but also in spirit.”

The Manchester Midnight Walk is the flagship fundraising event for St Ann’s Hospice which provides free care each year for around 3,000 adults with life-limiting illnesses.

The walk starts at 11.30pm from Manchester Central which opens at 9 pm for entertainment. Registration is £18 and £15 for past walkers. A rate of £10 applies for walkers aged 11 to 17 and this fun event is popular with families.

* To register go to www.manchestermidnightwalk.co.uk or call the St Ann’s fundraising team on 0161 498 3631.