A concert held in Darlington last week in memory of a 23-year-old Northallerton girl who died unexpectedly at university this year has raised £1,400 for charity.

Issy Ineson was just 23 when she unexpectedly passed away in March in student halls whilst studying at the University of Leeds.

The fine art student volunteered for charity in her spare time and held a keen interest in the performing arts from a young age.

The Northern Echo: The programme of the evening featuring Issy Ineson.The programme of the evening featuring Issy Ineson. (Image: VIVECA BRADSHAW)

In her memory, Issy's former vocal coach Viveca Bradshaw, owner of Abbey Vocal Studios decided to hold their yearly concert at The Forum Music Centre in Darlington last Sunday (December 17).

Over 150 people attended the event dedicated to her memory, which featured 47 musical numbers including tracks from West End smash hit Six and summer romance Grease.

In total, the evening raised £1,400 for homeless charity St George's Crypt in Leeds - a organisation at which Issy volunteered at during her time at university.

The Northern Echo: Issy Ineson.Issy Ineson. (Image: INESON FAMILY)

Following the evening's success, Viveca said: "The charity are absolutely over the moon with the donation - it was such a lovely evening. Out of the numbers we performed, Six was brilliant - all the girls did great.

"We also did a performance of Greased Lightning with the boys and then of course our performance of Heal the World at the end with everyone."

The Northern Echo: The evening performance at The Forum.The evening performance at The Forum. (Image: VIVECA BRADSHAW)

Amongst those in attendance was Issy's mum Maria and elder brother Sam, who came out to support those performing; some of whom knew Issy. 

Pictures from the evening show the collective of youngsters gathered on the stage in song, stood in front of a banner reading 'Thank You For The Music'.

Since 2009, the yearly concerts have raised a grand total of over £80,000 for charities including St Teresa’s Hospice, Newcastle’s RVI and the Teenage Cancer Trusts as well as other projects.

The Northern Echo: Evening performance at The Forum Music Centre, Darlington.Evening performance at The Forum Music Centre, Darlington. (Image: VIVECA BRADSHAW)

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Now, following the huge success of 2023's concert, Viveca has expressed her pride in her students and former students who took to the stage for the cause.

She added: "To have raised all this money is brilliant - I am super proud of all of the kids for all their hard work.

"It is hours and hours of work but it is for charity. When I see the kids get up there and perform it just makes me so happy - that's why I do what I do.

"The performing arts gives children so much joy and confidence."