An all-day live music extravaganza is to be held this weekend in memory of a young woman struck down by adult cot death.
The Railway Tavern in Nuneaton is to be filled with local talent for a Charity Gig on Saturday in memory of Claire Keen who died three years ago of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy – or Sudden Adult Death Syndrome, aged 27.
Claire’s younger brother Sam plays the drums for Drag Queen Bingo – one of around eight bands set to perform from 3pm until late at the Bond Street-based public house.
All funds raised will go to the CRY charity which raises awareness of Cardiac Risk in the Young and also aims to get children screened for the condition, which has little or no symptoms, at school at the age of 14.
“Sudden Adult Death Syndrome kills around six to ten young adults a week,” explained Claire’s sister Emma, a mum of two.
It’s overtaking cancer as the biggest killer of young people and we’re trying to get all children tested in school by raising as much money as we can.
“We’ve done a few fundraisers for CRY now and hope that Saturday’s all dayer will raise plenty of money as well as raise awareness.”
The gig will also be held in memory of Emma’s fiancé Paul Byrne, who tragically died in 2006 after falling down some stairs and hitting his head while working away in Germany.
This prompted Emma and Paul’s brother Steven to set up the ‘Claire Keen and Paul Byrne Memorial Fund’ in aid of CRY.
The full line-up for Saturday’s all dayer is Jesus Deluxe, The Crooks, Drag Queen Bingo, Mint Ne, Senses, Go Lazarus, OK Prisoner plus special guests. Entrance is charged at £3 on the door with all money to go to CRY.
CRY was set up in May 1995 to offer counselling to those affected by the sudden loss of a loved one while also seeking to buy essential equipment and provide screening. Patrons of the charity include David Walliams who recently appeared in a short film to reassure people that the screening process is not a scary one.
A cheque for £620 was handed over to CRY last year by Emma Keen and Steven Byrne following a charity football match between Attleborough Mills and the Old Heads at the Griff and Coton Sports Club.
