A SINGER has given a poignant performance in memory of her late grandfather, former Darlington footballer Ralph Phillips.

Sarah Dee, 29, of Carrville, Durham, who recently signed a recording deal, took part in the event at Beamish Museum, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, as part of Dementia Awareness Week.

Her grandfather, from Pittington, died six years ago after battling Alzheimer’s Disease and cancer.

Ms Dee, of Carrville, Durham, said: “I have so many fond memories of my granddad Ralph. He was a good footballer in his youth and played for Northampton Town and Darlington in the 50s and 60s. Back then they didn’t get the money players of today are paid and I often wonder whether heading those heavy leather balls contributed to his dementia.”

Ms Dee, whose new single You Make Me Wanna will be realised on June 3, approached Alzheimer’s Society when she learned the charity was planning a series of events to coincide with Dementia Awareness Week and its United Against Dementia campaign.

There will also be a around the Beamish site on Friday from 10am and a treasure hunt on Saturday between 10am and noon.