FOLLOWING the death of his grandma in 2017, local singer Tim Wood has taken up the mantle of funding 100 hours of research into a cure for dementia.

As well training to run for Alzheimer’s Research UK at this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon, despite the weather fighting against him - the Sale resident who performs regularly with local theatre societies is also organising Raise Your Voice - a fundraising concert with singers from across Manchester.

The fundraising comes just a year after Tim’s grandma, Joyce Jackson passed away, aged 91, after living the final few years of her life with severe dementia.

With 850,000 people estimated to be living with dementia in the UK, Tim hopes to raise at least £2,000 for the cause - every £20 funds one hour of research into the disease.

Tim said: “Alzheimer’s is a really cruel disease and it was heartbreaking to see the impact it had on my nana and everyone who cared for her. She was always very musical – she trained at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, taught piano and played the church organ when she retired – so it feels fitting to be able to raise money for vital research with something she would have really enjoyed.”

Having taken part in productions at the Lowry and Altrincham Garrick, Tim has brought together a collective of semi-pro performers and musicians from across Manchester for an evening of musical theatre and live music at Chorlton Methodist Church in Manchester Road.

Speaking about the concert Tim said: “I’m hoping it will make a nice change from being out on the road running! It’s a chance for us to make a dent in a disease that affects so many families. We’ve got a brilliant set of singers together to perform songs from musicals both old and new in a beautiful venue, so it’s set to be a great night.”

Raise Your Voice will take place at on Saturday March 3. Tickets can be booked via https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Manchester/Chorlton-Methodist-Church/Raise-Your-Voice/13119638/

Or to simply donate visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/timler23