A TEENAGER has organised a charity concert at Northallerton's Hambleton Forum to raise money for the hospice that cared for her dying father.

Michelle Goult, 17, lost her father, Allan, last November to mesothelioma, an asbestos-related disease. He died less than four months after being diagnosed.

Herriot Hospice Homecare staff cared for him during the last weeks of his life.

Miss Goult, who attends Thirsk Sixth Form College, has booked seven bands to play at the gig. She sees it as an opportunity for them to showcase their talent and get noticed.

She said: "It's had its ups and downs and times where you think no, it's not possible, it's too big - a dream you could say.

"However, by being consistent and having fantastic friends, we've got through."

Speaking about her father's illness, and the care he received at the hospice, Miss Goult said: "I had no idea that such a thing could be possible and I had no awareness of anyone like them - or cancer.

"Having such an event like that makes you value the little things people can do, which makes it much easier to cope with.

"Without them I don't think I would have the same direct manner and be so demanding, making sure that I get my goals.

"People are just not aware of anything like this but with the gig promoting the hospice people will be more aware they can turn to them even after losing someone."

Miss Goult's mother, Pamela, 52, said: "I'm extremely proud of her and I think it's a very nice way to thank the nurses who looked after her father in the later stages, and it's also in memory of him as well."

Mr Goult, 71, came into contact with asbestos while working as an electrical fitter.

The gig is at the Hambleton Forum on June 23 from 6.30 to 11pm.

Tickets cost £5 and money raised will go to Herriot Hospice Homecare.

Go to myspace.com/unionpromo for more details.