A CHARITY festival organised in memory of a village stalwart who died of cancer will go ahead later this year.

ClaireFest 2011 is ready to rock Ashwell on September 3 and will be headlined by 2009 X Factor finalist Danyl Johnson.

The open-air music event at Elbrook Meadows has been organised in memory of Claire Stanley who lost her 13-year battle with breast cancer a year ago this month, aged 48.

Claire, who grew up in the village and became a landlady of The Three Tuns Hotel, sang in local bands and was supportive of the local music scene, so her husband Darrell Stanley decided a music festival in her honour would be a fitting tribute.

Speaking about ClaireFest, Darrell, who is also the event director, said: “Our aim is to raise as much money as possible, 80 per cent of which will go to the trust for cancer research projects as well as equipment and drugs to help cancer sufferers.

“10 per cent will go to Garden House Hospice in Letchworth and 10 per cent to local Ashwell charities and organisations that were close to Claire’s heart.

“We have a great line-up of over 25 bands, trade stalls, entertainment, a bar and food. ClaireFest promises to be a great day out for all the family.”

Eighties rockers Doctor and the Medics, Andrews Sisters tribute act The Rockabellas, Scarlett Fever, Black Dog and Hitchin-based Monaco Bears have all been confirmed for the festival, which also will see an open mic tent where new acts can compete for prizes including studio recording time.

On sale from Wednesday, June 15, advanced tickets cost �16 for adults and �8.50 for five to 15-year-olds, while under 5s go free. To book visit www.clairestanleytrust.org

Organisers are also looking for corporate sponsorship to help fund the running costs and volunteers for the running of the event.

For more information email louisa@clairestanleytrust.org or volunteers@clairestanleytrust.org respectively.