MUSICIANS in Darlington are joining together to remember a popular councillor and support their terminally-ill friend.

Bands and artists from across the town have recorded an album in honour of Darlington music lovers Joe Lyonette and his friend Tom Whitton.

Borough councillor and punk fan Mr Lyonette died suddenly at the age of 50 last year after devoting his life to helping the community and supporting Darlington's music scene.

Close friend Mr Whitton, who is seriously ill with a brain tumour, is paying tribute to the “inspirational” Mr Lyonette by releasing an album in his memory.

A number of local musicians contributed to the album, which will feature Mr Whitton’s take on Green Day’s Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – renamed ‘The Time of Tom’s Life’.

It will be launched at The Forum this Friday (April 29), with all funds going to support the venue and Macmillan Cancer Care, whose nurses are supporting Mr Whitton and his family.

Mr Whitton organised the event in a bid to continue Mr Lyonette’s legacy.

The 44-year-old said: “Joe was all about local music, community and battling austerity - this is not just in his memory but to fight for what he believed in.

“I was gutted when Joe passed away – he was an amazing man who did so much.

“This is at The Forum because I feel just as passionately about supporting it as Joe did.

“He was against austerity closing places like the Arts Centre and impacting the Darlington Carnival, which he was a big part of.”

Mr Whitton said the event would also be a “bit of a send off” for him and his friends.

He added: “This is not about me but I wanted to support Macmillan because I’m currently surviving this brain tumour and going through chemo – the Macmillan nurses are fantastic.

“They’ve helped us physically, mentally and emotionally so if I can do anything for Joe and for these nurses, I’ll feel better for it.

“This is in honour of Joe Lyonette and it’s to fight for the community, for local music and for all of those who want to live life and enjoy it."

Tom and Eggy’s Album Launch Party will take place from 7pm on Friday, April 29 and will feature acts including Lost Rockers, Steve Larkin and Hayley McKay.

Tickets are £5 and albums will be on sale throughout the event and afterwards, at the Guru Boutique. To book tickets, call The Forum on 01325 363135.