AFTER being diagnosed with lymphoma in 2011, Gerry Hunt knows only too well how supportive the Macmillan Cancer Support nurses can be.

And that is why the 61-year-old drummer, of Wroughton, will be taking to the stage with his band, Shred, on May 11 to raise funds for the charity.

The band, which includes his sons Darren and Jamie on guitars and Paul Smith on bass, plus Gary Durnford who is the band’s sound and light engineer, will be performing at The Queens Tap in Station Road.

Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system, which forms part of the body’s immune system.

Gerry, who is in remission, said: “The Macmillan nurses were there from the moment I was diagnosed. They were there through the treatment and they have helped me out financially too.

“You can phone them any time, and when I was having chemo or visiting the specialist they would come and talk to me.”

Macmillan Cancer Support provide practical, medical and financial support and push for better cancer care for all cancer patients.

“I finished chemotherapy in January, and in February I was told I was in remission,” said Gerry.

“I am on medication to prolong the remission period but I don’t know how long it will be. “It puts a question mark over the future so you live every day to the full.”

The gig on May 11 will include skiffle band Ode And The Bebops from 8pm until 9pm, and Shred will be performing from 9pm until midnight.

The gig will also include entertainment from a burlesque dancer.

Shred is also celebrating its 20th anniversary that evening.

“Shred is my family band. We have been going 20 years this month. We play in pubs and clubs around the area. To keep the band going 20 years is quite an achievement,” said Gerry.

“We are a high-energy rock band. We are very visual, there is plenty going on.”

The band perform covers of acts including ACDC, Metallica, Eric Clapton and Bon Jovi, as well as original material.

They are hoping to raise about £500 for Macmillan on the night.

Darren, 34, of West Swindon, who teaches guitar in schools across the area, is also raffling a free solo gig to raise funds.

Jamie, 33, also of West Swindon, works for the Bristol Institute of Music.

Gerry usually teaches drums in schools but is taking time out while he recovers from his treatment.

Entry to the gig is free and it starts at 8pm.