Retford: Life of 22-year-old car crash victim to be celebrated at annual fundraising rock gig

James, of Holly Road, Retford, died when his silver Rover careered off North Road and collided with a telegraph pole in 2008.

Keen to honour the memory, of their childhood friend, siblings Luke and Roseanna Burton decided to launch ‘BUNFEST’, an annual fundraising gig.

The event, which made its debut in 2011 at the Frog and Nightgown in Worksop, is a nod to James’s passion for heavy rock music while he was alive and aims to raise as many funds as possible for road safety charity BREAK.

Roseanna said: “James was my brother’s childhood best friend and his sister Nicky is mine. We grew up together and are all exceptionally close-the Bunning’s are like family to us, and it was extremely difficult supporting them through such an emotionally awful time when James was killed.”

“All though time has passed, it is still in the back of our minds and we like to have a day each year where we all come together to remember James and celebrate his life.”

This year’s ‘BUNFEST’ gig will take place at the Newcastle Arms on 37 Bridgegate in Retford on Saturday 19th July.

There will be an outdoor stage showcasing local rock and metal bands, along with stalls, giveaways from sponsors Threads and Sheds of Worksop, a BBQ and food van.

FroSm 12pm. All are welcome to attend. For further information on ‘BUNFEST’, email [email protected].