IRISH superstars The Corrs have announced they are to give a special charity performance in the North-East to raise money for the hospital which cared for their mother in her final days.

The chart-topping quartet were so touched by the care Jean Corr received at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital they are to stage a special concert at the Telewest Arena on January 8.

Mrs Corr, 57, died a year ago while waiting for a lung transplant.

The brother and sister band, lead singer Andrea, drummer, Caroline, violinist Sharon and guitarist Jim, along with their father Gerry, were by her side when she died in November last year.

Jim Corr said: "We've always wanted to do something for the Freeman as it was a place our mother was looked after so well for her last days."

Mrs Corr died after being rushed to the Freeman from her home in Dundalk, County Louth, almost a week earlier, suffering from the rare lung disease cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis.

The group admitted the date, which will kick off their UK tour, will be an emotional night for them.

Andrea said: "It will be very hard to perform and we want to give something back to Newcastle for taking care of mum so well and to say a huge thank-you."

Sharon added: "It was a tough time for us. We were with mum within hours when we heard how serious it was,

"But the Freeman staff kept us so informed and were so lovely with us."

Father Gerry will also be at the concert to say his own special thank-you.

Jim said: "It will be a tough night for him, but we all determined to help this research centre and help find a cure for the disease.

"You may even see us in the foyer ourselves with the collection tins.