THE work of Wessex Cancer Trust in Winchester was put under the spotlight at a special Mother’s Day performance in the city.

A line-up of local talent took to the stage at the Theatre Royal to be part of the Songs 4 Life concert.

The event for all ages was thought up by Helen Rogers from Alton, to raise funds for the Winchester Cancer Support Centre, where she was a former client.

Helen was diagnosed with cancer in April 2012. She had surgery the following month and after completing her treatment benefitted from the support of Wessex Cancer Trust’s Winchester centre throughout 2013.

Helen said: “I benefitted hugely from my own experience with Wessex Cancer Trust through the continued care and support I received from them. In turn I wanted to tell others so they can too.

“I suggested the idea of the theatre show to promote the work that the trust do in their centres, supporting anyone affected by any type of cancer.”

Wessex Cancer Trust supports all cancer sufferers and their families from around Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, the Isle of Wight and the Channel Islands. It also runs facilities in Southampton, Cosham, Hythe and Newport on the Isle of Wight.

Singing out in aid of the charity was close-harmony acapella specialists The Tudor Roses, and the inspirational young voices of Hampshire Youth Chamber Choir.

Ukulele group Winchester Uke Jam joined them, and completing the bill was Winchester Rock Choir’s upbeat and joyful performance that left the audience singing in the aisles.

Helen’s friend Nicci Roberts 47, from Winchester, was a client at the Winchester centre at the same time as Helen and went on to finish her 21-year teaching career by becoming the centre manager.

Nicci said: “It was wonderful to see the community rally round to support our Winchester centre which has helped so many people, just like Helen. It was an amazing event with some incredible talent – perfect for a Mother’s Day treat.

“It’s only through events like this and the assistance we get from local people that we can continue to provide our services for cancer sufferers and their families. The event was a great success and we got a good crowd!”