AN OSWESTRY venue is set to host a Motown-themed event in memory of a popular publican.

Set to take place later this summer at The Venue in Park Hall, the evening is set to raise money for Severn Hospice.

Laura Smith is organising the event in memory of her father, Christopher Hadden, who died recently at the age of 59.

Christopher had Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) and spent time in the care of Severn Hospice before he died.

Now daughter Laura is looking to raise funds for the hospice after seeing the work they do, raising £1,500 for the charity through tombolas, raffles and various other fundraisers.

She said: “I think we can all be quite ignorant to how much work they actually do at Severn Hospice and other similar places.

“People can be too unaware that they actually do amazing work for so many people.

“Until I went there, I could not imagine the amount of care they give to people – nothing is too much for them.”

Christopher was born in Wednesfield, before moving to Llanymynech 26 years ago.

The popular Llanymynech resident was a big Motown fan and a keen singer, enjoying his time on the karaoke at various pubs.

“My dad was set to turn 60 this year and I wanted to throw a party for him,” Laura added.

“This is something we’re going to go ahead with it anyway and do it for charity.

“He absolutely loved Motown – UB40 and similar bands were all his favourites.

“He would quite often be seen singing on the karaoke at The Dolphin Inn in Llanymynech.

“He was a very outgoing, very special man.

“He was very popular in the area being a publican.

“We want to get as many people to come and support the charity on what will be an enjoyable evening.”

As well as live entertainment, there will be a silent auction and a hog roast among other things.

A 50-inch television and a pair of rugby tickets up for grabs on the evening.

Tickets are available at £25 for an adult and £5 for children, and are available at https://ti.to/severn-hospice/charity-night