A CONCERT held in memory of a West Dorset man who died following a battle with cancer is set to become an annual fundraiser.

Paul Wicken, 36, died last year just days before the event in aid of the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust took place.

Colleagues at Ocean Bathrooms on St Michael’s Trading Estate organised the musical event again this year in aid of the charity in Paul’s memory.

Managing director Robert Muhl said he was pleased at the success of the concert, which was also attended by Paul’s family.

He said: “We are still waiting for the final count to be done but it looks as though we will have raised a lot of money.

“The event was almost rushed together last year because of what happened. It was very sad but it made everyone all the more determined to make it a success.”

He added: “We are looking at turning it into an annual thing because we have so much support from everyone.”

Paul worked as a bathroom fitter and was one of several recommended by the company.

The event was attended by several of his former customers, who also made donations to the charity where Paul received respite care.

This year’s line-up included local singing duo Shiraz, Pete Pope will be performing on the guitar, singing duo Fragments and guitars as well as Tinkers Cuss and many more.

Former colleague Adam Gale cycled more than 100 miles on a static bike during the event in return for donations.

The concert, cakes and raffle raised more than £1,300 last year. Mr Muhl said: “Paul was very popular, both with customers and colleagues.

“The world is about the good and the bad things but if you all pull together then it does help.

“Paul’s family were taken aback by everything and how much everyone wanted to help.”

He added: “If we do make it a yearly event, then we will look at which other charities it could be in aid of.

“Paul was very keen to raise money for Julia’s House. Weldmar works so tirelessly helping individuals and families at an extremely vulnerable time.”