A TUNE by a North-East songsmith has been penned for a North-East blood cancer charity.

Bright Red, by Consett singer songwriter Michael Kelly, is named after the organisation and is in honour of one its patrons, Lee Robson.

The 35-year-old former soldier, who died in July 2013, the day before he was due to marry his fiancé, suffered from leukaemia and was an ardent supporter of the charity.

Mr Robson’s father, Billy Robson, met Mr Kelly at a Lindisfarne gig in Newcastle before Christmas and asked him to write a song.

The 65-year-old musician said: “The name came first and I thought it has be a strong song, quite short and hit hard.

“After you hear the words of the song, you realise it can affect kids, wives, husbands, sons, daughters, everyone. It is a worldwide thing.”

Mr Kelly is playing an unplugged gig with friends gig at Consett YMCA on Thursday, April 2 and his song with gets its first live performance.

It is hoped it will be released for sale as a charity single.

Billy Robson, the YMCA’s chief executive, said: “He took me into the recording studio and played me the song and it hits you. I had to go out because I became emotional.

“Lee’s heart was with Bright Red and this is another way we can keep his memory alive.”

The doors open at 7pm and entry is £2 with funds going towards Bright Red.