THREE generations of a Ryedale family are tonight continuing their tradition of big show fundraising for the charity that has supported them through cancer.

Pat Long, from Norton, had to have her voicebox removed after she was diagnosed with cancer five and a half years ago.

A double operation saved her life and now she and her family are staging The Grand Macmillan Variety Show at Norton College this evening to say thank you to Macmillan Cancer Support for helping them through the crisis. In 2011, she and her husband Ron organised a Valentine’s Dance for the charity.

Pat said: “Macmillan haven’t just helped me, they have been a source of support for my husband, children and grandchildren.”

“We couldn’t have coped without them.”

All three generations of the family have been involved in organising the show which includes acoustic singer songwriters, Holly Taymar and Chris Bilton, Malton Male Voice Choir, dancers from Dance Expression, Swinton Excelsior Band, singer David Swann, Young Sceptics and the sixth form band from Norton College.

Sally Millington the charity’s fundraising manager for the area said: “It really is wonderful that the whole family are getting involved to put on what is set to be a magnificent show.

“There are some amazing acts performing on the night, and some incredible talent from the local area.

“Everyone is invited to come along and have a brilliant night, knowing that the money raised through the event will help us to make a big difference to people who are going through cancer.

“More than one in three of us will get cancer and for most of us it will be the toughest fight we ever face.

“No one should face cancer alone. And with your support no one will.”

Tonight’s show is at 7pm. Tickets cost £7 or £5 for concessions and children aged under 16 and are available from Malton Tourist Information Centre and Norton College.