A BREAST cancer survivor is organising a spectacular night of music and fireworks in Bournemouth to raise funds for the hospitals which helped her.

Karen Pitt, who is a member of Swing Unlimited Big Band, was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2013.

After two operations and a course of chemotherapy, she was given the all clear in May last year, crediting her friends and family for helping her through.

Karen said: “I found a lump before I was due on stage so I had to keep it to myself until after the gig. I was already booked to see my doctor for something else the next day so everything happened fairly swiftly for me.

“My Swing Unlimited Big Band friends were amazing. They sent me flowers, texts and emails to cheer me up and this really helped me stay positive. I went to as many band practices as I could when I felt well enough and they always made me laugh.

“The treatment I received was fantastic – it’s the reason I’m here today. I wanted to give something back and help others and that’s why I’m organising the Swing Unlimited Big Band Fireworks Spectacular. ”

Money raised from the event will be split between Bournemouth Hospital Charity – for the Jigsaw Building and medical equipment - Poole Hospital Radiotherapy and The Poole and District Children’s Cancer Fund.

Guests are invited to bring a picnic, blanket and fold up chairs to enjoy the evening’s entertainment. A hog roast and bar will also be open during the evening. Music will feature songs from Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and some of Swing Unlimited Big Band’s favourite and more unusual numbers. The evening will finish with a spectacular firework display while the band continues to play.

The event will take place at 7pm on July 25 at St Peter’s School in Southbourne. Tickets are available on the gate for £5 (under 10s are free) and access to the field is from Broadway, Southbourne and not via the school.