For the third year running the Harvey family and their friends organised a fundraising effort in support of Pancreatic Cancer UK, a charity close to their hearts.

Michael Harvey is a survivor of the disease, undergoing chemotherapy and a major operation in 2017 and 2018. His youngest son, Jim, died from an inoperable diagnosis in 2021 and his brother, Matt, who had been a keen fundraiser for the charity died of an unrelated matter in 2023.

Matt was particularly missed at this year’s event as, in previous years, he had appeared in a variety of tribute roles as Elvis Presley, Freddie Mercury and Frank Sinatra.

The family were determined to maintain the musical tradition and this year's busking session in Northallerton High Street on Saturday saw the debut of Harry, Jim’s son and Will, Matt’s son, assisted by their uncle Tim and cousin Carmel.

Proceedings were opened by The Swale Valley Stompers, a trad jazz band formed by Michael and Peter Edmonds in the late 1970s.

The band were joined by Michael’s sister in law, Lucy on trombone. Other acts braving the unseasonal weather included The Blethermen and Jazz in the Afternoon. Michael was also accompanied by Elisabeth a young flautist on a trio of Donovan numbers.

Michael’s daughter Rachel organised bucket collectors, including several of his grandchildren, in-laws, and many friends, and their efforts raised in excess of £1,200. There is also an online donation page which, to date, has raised a further £300.

"Thanks to the generous shoppers and visitors who dodged the showers to contribute," said Michael. "We now need a good weather forecaster to choose a date in 2025 where we can have some dry weather!"