FRIENDS of a York two-year-old who is battling a serious heart condition have organised a fundraising concert to raise money for research in to the illness.

Alfie Oliver has suffered from pulmonary hypertension since he was born, requiring extensive heart surgery and constant medication with a complex drug delivery system.

Inspired by the youngster’s fight, family friend Gemma Holloway has gathered eight of York’s up-and-coming bands to perform at The Duchess in Stonebow this September.

She said: “I used to live with Tracey, Alfie’s mum, and I know her husband Rob.

“I have never organised anything like this before. My husband is in a band and that’s where the idea took off from.

“Four of the eight bands I know through my husband and the other four contacted me and asked to perform.”

Originally the concert had been intended to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital but the proceeds will now be split equally with the Pulmonary Hypertension Association UK, which funds research in to the debilitating condition.

Gemma, 27, said: “Alfie is adorable. He’s fantastic and doesn’t let anything bother him.

“A lot of children who have huge difficulties seem to be so cheerful. He‘s so strong and he’s a fighter and his family are salt of the earth people.

“The concert is bringing together local bands and local people to help a local boy.

“There’s a real buzz about it. We only started selling the tickets two weeks ago but I’m hoping to sell out – everyone is welcome.”

The bands lined up to play are Kiss Kiss Kill, Elan Vitale, Rosie, From Almost The End, Crave, Katie and the Questions, IHeart and The Memphis Crash.

The show takes place on September 5.

Tickets and details are available from www.theduchess.co.uk