AN annual music festival is set to return for a sixth year to raise money for South Tees Hospitals Charity, which provides funds for the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton.

Organisers of Cowtonbury are on a mission to raise more than £100,000 to support end of life care in the local community and the Friarage Hospital. So far they have raised over £70,000.

There will be eight bands taking to the stage and 'Rocking the Roof' at The Beeswing Inn, East Cowton, Northallerton on Sunday when there will be 12 hours of live music from 1pm, with children welcome until 5pm – plus great food and drink.

The festival started in 2013 by Beth Robinson, landlady of The Beeswing Inn, when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has been in remission now for nearly five years, however unfortunately Beth's father Les was diagnosed with incurable lung cancer and passed away in August last year at the Friarage.

Now she is working to raise funds for the Friarage Hospital for the next three years to improve the environment and the experience of patients and their families.

She said: “I know first-hand how important good end of life facilities and services are, which is why we are raising money to make them better. Cowtonbury is always something really special.

"We have eight bands playing a variety of music and it’s a fun day out – so I’d urge you to come along and support us.”

Suzi Campbell, South Tees Hospitals Charity, said: “Cowtonbury has already made a huge difference in supporting patients and families during challenging times. We are keen to work with the Cowtonbury team to build on this to ensure their fundraising makes the impact they would wish for. Please support this great event and get your tickets for what will be a brilliant day."

The event is being sponsored by Barker’s of Northallerton, who will continue to sponsor the event for the next three years.

Charles Barker said: “We are firm believers in doing our bit in supporting our much loved and vital Friarage Hospital here in Northallerton. It’s played such an important role in the lives of so many people in this area."

Tickets for Rocking the Roof cost £15 each. To get yours, call The Beeswing Inn on 01325-378349.