A MAN whose cousin was murdered, today urged people to support a charity concert in her memory.
Craig Halls, 25, from Weymouth, is helping to organise a musical tribute to Marsha McDonnell, a 19-year-old student who was brutally attacked near her home in south-west London in February 2003.
Marsha, who loved children and planned to travel before going to university, is the daughter of former Weymouth musician Phil McDonnell. Her killer has never been found.
Although growing up more than 100 miles apart, Mr Halls remembers his cousin with affection and recalls the time they spent together during school holidays.
Now a chief petty officer aircraft technician in the Royal Navy, Mr Halls is helping to organise the third Marsha's Fun Day - a 12-hour musical extravaganza at the Winning Post pub in Twickenham, featuring Jools Holland, Weymouth piano maestro Ben Waters and a host of other stars.
Mr Halls is working with his uncle Mr McDonnell and Weymouth musician Chris Lonergan to organise the event on Saturday, October 1.
A coach is being arranged so people from Dorset can attend but it is hoped that businesses will sponsor the cost of the transport so more money can be raised for the Shooting Star children's hospice in Hampton.
Mr Halls said: "If 10 local firms each donated £50 we'll secure the £500 needed to hire the coach.
"Phil says he can pay for the coach himself but the less that is paid out the more cash goes to the hospice."
He added: "It's a real worthwhile event because it's a fun day out and for a good cause.
"Money raised in the past has gone to build a music therapy room named after Marsha. It's so appropriate because she loved kids.
"She had a zest for life and I miss her dearly."
Echo music writer Mr Lonergan said: "Marsha's death touched many people in Weymouth, especially as Phil has strong links to the town and many of his family still live here.
"The event has been a sell-out for the past two years running and Phil has managed to secure some fantastic acts.
"It's a great day out for all the family and a snip at £25 a head, including transport."
If you would like a ticket or can offer sponsorship contact Mr Lonergan on 01305 772944.
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