A “POIGNANT and uplifting” concert in memory of a man who died of cancer is to take place in Purbeck later this month. 

Henry Searle, 25, died of a brain tumour in April 2021 following a seven-year battle against the illness. 

His parents Vicki and Jonathan Searle, from Swanage, have for the past four years organised a fundraising memorial concert. 

Music by the Sea takes place in the natural amphitheatre of the Prince Albert Gardens, Swanage overlooking the town and the bay, on Saturday, August 31` between 10.20am and 8pm. 

Henry Searle on Swanage Railway steam loco with brother OliverHenry Searle on Swanage Railway steam loco with brother Oliver (Image: VICKI SEARLE)

Organised with the help of businesses and individuals in Swanage and around the country, Music by the Sea features music from across the decades from more than 20 bands and singers. 

Vicki said: “Henry was funny, loving, kind and generous - an all-round beautiful boy. Everyone loved him and he had lots of friends. Henry just loved the world. 

“For the fourth year running, Music by the Sea will see Henry’s friends, as well as our local talented artists and bands, sing and play music in his memory and for local charities, including the Isle of Purbeck cancer support group Cancare which was such a great help to Henry during his illness. 

“The Prince Albert Gardens is a lovely venue and the perfect amphitheatre for music. Henry used to play there with his family and friends when he was young so we have many happy memories. 

“Henry loved to ride on the Swanage Railway’s steam trains as a child and later on he worked on the heritage line’s Wessex Belle dining trains as a waiter.” 

Henry’s dad Jonathan added: “Henry was a brilliant musician who played the guitar and sang with bands in and around Swanage. 

“He had a beautiful melodic voice and sang some beautiful ballads and duets. Henry was a lovely all-round performer. 

“’Music by the Sea’ is a wonderful way of keeping Henry’s memory alive while also raising money for charities and good causes in Swanage.” 

Swanage Railway Trust chairman Frank Roberts said: “The Swanage Railway is proud to support such a poignant and uplifting community event and we are delighted that the Swanage Railway Trust’s Save Your Railway appeal will be one of the beneficiaries from this year’s Music by the Sea memorial concert.” 

Charities that will benefit from the fundraiser are the Isle of Purbeck cancer support group Cancare and the Swanage Railway Trust’s Save Your Railway appeal.  

Admission to the no-plastic Music by the Sea is £10 for adults and free for children under the age of 16 accompanied by an adult. Wristbands can be purchased for a cash payment at Country Foods in Station Road, Swanage.