PUNK fans will be flocking to the region for an annual 'great night out' event which raises money for a good cause.

Brian Alderson, from Darlington, was diagnosed with bowel cancer and then lymph node cancer in 2012.

The music fan decided to host a charity gig in 2013 to raise money for Macmillan, which helped him through his treatment, and from there the annual Punk and Oi! Charity Bash was born.

Now in its sixth year, bands from across the country travel to play at the all-day gig, coming from as far away as Plymouth, London, Leicester, Bristol and parts of Scotland.

Since its beginning, the charity night has raised over £20,000 for Macmillan which provides specialist health care, information and financial support to people affected by cancer.

Mr Alderson said the concert began as a small gesture to give back to those that supported him and has grown to be a major event in the music scene.

He said: "Over the years I have had people come from all over the country and it's a great night out.

"When I fell poorly I decided to give a bit back to the people that helped me.

"When I did it the first year everyone wanted it to be held again and again, and now it's become its own annual event. It's great."

Throughout his illness, Mr Alderson said he was inundated with support from his fellow punks and skinheads – as well as dedicated nurses from Macmillan.

Now having received his official all clear, Mr Alderson celebrated the news from his medical team with a milestone marked at a gig at The Forum, which raised £4,032.44.

Mr Alderson added: “Macmillan were fantastic with me throughout, it’s a cause that’s very close to my heart and I intend to carry on with the gigs for as long as I can.

“I’d also really like to thank all of the bands and the punk rock family who have given me their support.”

Since beginning his gigs in 2013, Mr Alderson has been regularly approached by acts hoping to take to the stage and has fashioned varied and loud line ups over the years for each event.

Punk and Oi! Charity Bash part VI will be held at The Forum, Darlington, on Saturday September 21 and tickets can be bought in advance via the box office or on the door.

This year's lineup will feature bands such as Section 5, Street Outlaws, Tear Up and Braindance.

With the doors set to open at 12pm, the event will also have a raffle and auction, band merch and a fish and chip van.

  • To book tickets, call 01325 363135 or for more information, email info@theforumonline.co.uk.