A CONCERT in memory of a former theatre manager has raised more than £3,600 for the Renal Unit at York Hospital.

David Bushby, who died last year at the age of 70, had been a patient on the unit.

Mr Bushby was a popular figure on the York amateur theatre scene for more than 40 years, running the Joseph Rowntree Theatre on behalf of Rowntrees and later Nestlé.

A memorial charity concert held at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre in March in Mr Bushby's honour was well attended, raising a final total of more than £3,600.

Claire Smith, a community fundraiser for York Teaching Hospital Charity, said: "David was the manager of the theatre from 1970 until his retirement in 2001, when Nestle handed over the management of the theatre to a volunteer group.

"The concert featured performances from groups within the York area including New Earswick Musical Society, the Evelyn Witcombe School of Dance, York Opera and York Musical Theatre Company, among others. A raffle was also held on the evening."

Born in Acomb, and living in Holgate, Mr Bushby had started with the theatre as a stage and props manager, and later worked up to the role of general manager.

Dan Shrimpton, managing director of the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, said in tribute soon after his death: “David was a friend and supporter of so many people in his 40 years as manager of the Joseph Rowntree Theatre.

"He touched so many lives and this concert gave the people and groups he supported the opportunity to remember David and support the people who cared for him so well.

“David’s legacy remains with us in the theatre, and he was always proud of how it continues to thrive today, still used by York’s leading amateur theatre groups."