HUNDREDS of people gathered to celebrate the life of a much-loved Diggle mum and grandmother, raising an incredible amount for the haven which has become a sanctuary of calm and support for the borough's cancer sufferers and their families.

A Charity Concert Evening in memory of 57-year-old Christine Johnson was a chance for family and friends to honour her life which was cruelly snatched by cancer last March, just 12 months after she was diagnosed.

Organised by her husband, Howard, the event at Maggie's Oldham - where Chris attended a Pilates class - generated over £17,579 for the charity.

Chris, mum to Mark and Victoria and grandmother to 11-month-old Finlay, was a senior sister on the Renal Unit at North Manchester General.

Howard said she was well-known in Saddleworth and loved embracing all of its traditions, especially Whit Friday.

She had many friends who turned out in force on the night to show their support and honour their memories of Chris.

"The idea of a fundraising event was raised back in July," said Howard.

"My good friend Stuart Hanson and his friend Danny Power had previously organised a fundraiser for The Christie back in 2006 after Stuart's wife Cath passed away and they felt like it was time for another.

"Stuart is on the Maggie's Oldham fundraising committee and I said that we should hold the event in memory of Chris.

"As well as raising such a stunning amount we also had a wonderful evening and I have taken so much heart and strength from being supported by such generous people - generous with their donations AND generous emotionally.

"It was a fantastic way to remember Chris and I am honoured to have been part of it. I couldn't have done any of it without the support of Stuart and Danny."

Mossley Hollins Brass Band, The Mumbo Gumbo Rhythm and Blues Band, Paper Moon and Bright Sparks provided the entertainment with a raffle raising £2,500 and an auction £9,000.

Generous sponsors, including Martin Hill, from HPP, Colin Duffy, from ABP Food Group and a number of friends, covered the costs of the concert.