A concert to launch a book and realise its author’s dying wish has been hailed as a fantastic success.

Sidmouth Herald: The front cover of Moving On, by Sophie BeardmoreThe front cover of Moving On, by Sophie Beardmore (Image: Archant)

Mum Sophie Handley, 44, was finally set to see her tales in print when she was diagnosed with terminal cancer and told she had just weeks to live. Her mother, Judith Beardmore, teamed up with Beverley Raw to get it published. The launch of Moving On netted £350 for Exeter cancer charity FORCE and £75 for Hospiscare.

Beverley said: “The evening was a fantastic success. The music from Ruth Molins, Clare Marchant and Sidmouth Town Band was excellent and everyone really enjoyed it. Judy was grateful for all my work and all her family appreciated it.”

Moving On will be available at Paragon Books and Sidmouth’s Wyevale Garden Centre.