WHAT began as a one-off rock concert and charity event to raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is to be staged for a third time.

Ronington, a nine-hour music marathon, is organised by musician Russ Tippins in memory of his friend Ronnie Patchett, from Ferryhill, and will be staged at Shildon Civic Hall on February 22.

Mr Tippins said: “We first put on Ronington to mark the first anniversary of losing Ronnie to cancer.

“It was a great celebration of him and the music he loved. It was such a success that we’re now organising our third.

“Ronnie loved live music and I can’t think of a better way to remember him than through a concert.

“We’ve already raised almost £8,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and that’s something everyone involved is very proud of.”

The gig will feature ten bands, beginning at 3pm and ending at midnight.

This year, the line-up is Bon Jovi Forever, The Karma Heart, The Last Fakers, Damaged Inc (tribute to Metallica), The Russ Tippins Electric Band, The Dirty South, Blackjack, American Girl, Tin Pan Alley and The Flying V’s.

Mr Patchett died from bowel cancer aged just 54. He was diagnosed in November 2009 and was given the opportunity to trial a new drug at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

Ronnie’s wife of 34 years, Sue, and children Amy and Marc will all be attending Ronington III.

Tickets for Ronington III are £10 and are available from the venue, and online at ronington.co.uk