MUSICIANS across the region are being urged to perform at an open mic night inspired by a brave young mother with terminal cervical cancer.

Jade Pateman, who is just 21-years-old, was told she had 18 months to two years to live when diagnosed in May and is now campaigning for the screening age for cervical cancer to be lowered from 25 to 20.

The mother-of-one, from Shildon, County Durham, is also determined to enjoy herself and create wonderful memories with two-year-old son Oscar.

Singing is her passion and when the team at Darlington's Forum Music Centre learnt of her story they were keen to help.

On Friday, August 21, it will host an Open Mic Marathon to raise funds for Jade and Oscar’s Angels, a fund set up by Miss Pateman’s family for Oscar’s future.

Miss Pateman was the first to sign up and it is hoped more musicians will follow her.

Allison Mckay, managing director of Humantics Community Interest Company which runs the Forum, said she was deeply moved by Miss Pateman’s story.

“It is a tragedy that in this day and age measures are not in place to detect things like this at an early stage,” she said. “We are appealing to all musicians and performers in the area to get involved. We want to get as many people on stage as we can to raise as much money as possible for Oscar.”

Miss Pateman said: “I think it is really amazing what they are doing. I’m a big fan of music. I’m always listening to it and singing. I went into the Forum to record a song and Allison introduced herself and told me about their idea for an open mic night.

"I feel really excited because I love singing. It should be a really good night.”

In 2003, the Advisory Committee on Cervical Cancer advised increasing the minimum screening age from 20 to 25, as younger women undergo natural changes in the cervix, which would be highlighted during screening.

This could lead to unnecessary and potentially harmful treatment.

Cervical cancer is rare in those under 25 but Miss Pateman has joined the call for the screening age to be lowered to save the lives of other young women.

To sign her petition, visit change.org/p/cervical-cancer-lower-the-age-of-screening-from-25-to-20

The Open Mic Marathon starts at 7pm and there is a suggested minimum donation of £3 to perform or watch.

To book, a slot contact 01325-363135.

Donations for Oscar can also be made online at crowdfunding.justgiving.com/jadeandoscars-angels-charity