A HIT tribute show will return to Southend on Saturday, raising money for Fair Havens Hospice after one of its cast passed away at the facility in April.

The Carpenters Story, which tells the story of seventies superstars Richard and Karen Carpenter, has been touring since it was formed in Westcliff 25 years ago by producer and pianist Philip Aldridge.

However, tragedy struck when the cast lost violinist Lorraine Kelly, 47, to cancer.

Ms Kelly, who had previously led the Colombian Symphony Orchestra, had been a vital part of the cast for four years.

She performed both on violin and as a backing singer.

She sadly passed away on April 24 after being cared for at Fair Havens Hospice in Westcliff, near where she lived, in her last two weeks.

In memory of their much-loved cast member, the Carpenter’s Story team have decided to dedicate Saturday’s performance at the Cliff’s Pavilion, it’s twentieth visit to the venue, to Ms Kelly and help fundraise for Havens Hospices.

Mr Aldridge said: “Lorraine was integral to our team and is sorely missed by her colleagues and her many pupils alike.

“During the show we will take time to remember Lorraine in a moving tribute and to show our immense gratitude to Havens Hospices, will take the opportunity to help their fundraising campaign to fund a new hospice.”

The show features the vocal talents of Southend’s own Claire Furley who takes on the lead vocals of Karen Carpenter.

Tea lights will be available to purchase at the show, which can then be used by audience members to wave during the moving finale in a nod to the music festivals of the Seventies.

Sally Bridger, community fundraiser at Havens Hospices said, “On behalf of everyone at Havens Hospices, I would like to thank Phil and his team for fundraising for the new Fair Havens Hospice in Lorraine’s memory.

“The current Fair Havens has to turn away 11 patients every month.

“We need a new adult hospice to continue providing care and support to individuals, like Lorraine.

“We have the opportunity to create a larger, modern hospice in Southend that can care for twice as many patients.

“To offer more treatments and support more families in a welcoming and therapeutic environment.

“We can only do this because of the generosity of our supporters.

“By raising money for us, Phil and his team will be helping us secure the future of modern hospice care for South East Essex.