A WEEKEND of family fun is being held to raise money for Lister Hospital s Renal Research Institute in memory of a 25-year-old man who died from complications linked to kidney failure. Lee Haynes, who lived in Letchworth GC and was a drummer with local ba

A WEEKEND of family fun is being held to raise money for Lister Hospital's Renal Research Institute in memory of a 25-year-old man who died from complications linked to kidney failure.

Lee Haynes, who lived in Letchworth GC and was a drummer with local band Audio Justice, died in May 2005.

The Lee Haynes Memorial Fund was set up by his parents, Dave Haynes and Sue Williams, and has raised more than �26,000 for the cause to date.

Dr Paul Warwicker, a consultant nephrologist at the Lister Renal Unit in Stevenage, said: "Our research has historically been undertaken on a wing and a prayer.

"We have very limited and overcrowded space and facilities.

"Our aim is to build a dedicated research institute to facilitate and promote clinical research into this important field."

Now in its third year, the charity's annual fundraising campaign kicks off in the evening on Friday, August 28, with live band, Handle with Care, at The Globe in Letchworth GC.

A barrel of beer, donated by Buntingford Brewery, will be on sale and proceeds will go to the charity.

Then, on Sunday, August 30, there will be a fancy dress six-a-side football knockout competition at Stevenage Football Academy, and a family fun day at the Grange Community Centre in Letchworth GC.

The fun day will include a bouncy castle, face painting, a disco, games and a raffle. There will also be a bar from noon until late.

Dave said: "Everybody is welcome to attend the events. Just remember to bring wallets and purses!"

He added: "Our initial target is �50,000 by the end of this year, and we are already more than halfway there.

"However, the fund is ongoing. The Renal Research Institute will continue to need money, and we have pledged to continue to raise it."

For more information about the fun day, call 01462 621222.

For more information about the football knockout, call 07935586225.