A LONG-RUNNING campaign to prove that a North-East steelworks lies behind a cancer cluster among its workers is back on.

Earlier this month, cancer sufferer Jack Atherton and his wife, Dot, announced they were pulling out of the fight on behalf of afflicted former Consett steelworkers after exhausting £2,000 savings in Legal Aid contributions.

But last night they were handed a lifeline by a Consett music cooperative which plans to hold a fundraising concert for the cause.

Last night, Mrs Atherton, 59, announced she is to resign as a councillor with Derwentside District Council, in the Consett and Stanley area of County Durham, after undergoing heart surgery.

Mrs Atherton said: "We are not giving up on the cancer campaign. We had a call from John Kearney, at Northern Recordings, who very kindly said he would organise some kind of concert to help.

"I felt it was not fair on either Jack or myself to continue as a councillor. I am not long out of hospital and I cannot neglect Jack. I would like to thank everyone who has shown me support."

Mr Kearney said he was organising at least one concert but said it was too early to announce details.

Alex Watson, leader of Derwentside council, paid tribute to Mrs Atherton's work as a councillor for the Consett South ward during the past five years.

He said: "Everyone at Derwentside council wishes Dot Atherton a speedy recovery and extends their best wishes for a long and happy retirement."