A SINGER who was told she would not perform again after contracting throat cancer is staging a fundraising music event to thank the people who saved her life and her livelihood.

Suzy Martell has organised the show to raise money for York District Hospital's ear, nose and throat clinic, where she received treatment two years ago.

The 35-year-old underwent months of speech therapy as she battled throat cancer.

She has gone on to be a successful singer-songwriter, with one album under her belt and a second under way.

"The event is my way of giving something back to the people who helped me to beat cancer and find my voice again. Singing is my life," said Miss Martell.

Having performed from an early age, Miss Martell, of York, puts her illness down to singing in smoke-filled clubs and bars - although she is not a smoker herself.

"When I contracted cancer I was told by doctors I wouldn't sing again - it was the hardest thing I had to deal with," she said.

Miss Martell, who lives with her parents, records her music in the country and western capital of Nashville, Tennessee.

Mother Hazel Martell described her daughter as a "determined and inspirational" person.

The concert is at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, in York, at 7.30pm on on November 7. Tickets, priced from £6 to £8, are available on (01904) 644194.