No bum notes at Beckeret’s 12-Hour Music Marathon!
NO BUM NOTES IN BECKERMET…
12-Hour Music Marathon at Beckermet Reading Rooms – 31 January 2026.
by Danni Murphy
Beckermet Reading Rooms will host the Beckermet Music Marathon, a day that will see over 25–30 artists come together for a very worthy cause, with all proceeds going to Bowel Screening Awareness at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle.
The event is led by Beckermet resident Justin Bell. The inspiration comes from Justin’s recent experience of being in the capable and caring hands of the team at the Cumberland Infirmary. Now on the road to recovery, he wants to use the day to extend his thanks, raise awareness of the bowel screening programme, and show his appreciation by raising funds.
The event will run for 12 hours and is free to attend, although donations will be very welcome.
The day kicks off at 11am with the first of many acoustic acts, with the final performance at 10.30pm by Justin & Dave.
Justin said: “I just want people to be aware of the importance of the bowel screening programme offered by our wonderful NHS. In June, I turned 52 and received my complimentary NHS letter asking me to provide a sample to test for bowel cancer. I didn’t think much of it and wasn’t going to do it. Gill, my wife, made me do it for peace of mind.
“I posted the sample off, but two days later received a letter stating they were concerned and booked me for a colonoscopy. I worried but was convinced there was a mistake because I had no symptoms.
“Unfortunately, they found several tumours that required immediate removal. Tumours of 7mm are large, but some of mine were more than 30mm.
All but one were removed on the day; the final one required further surgery under general anaesthetic.
“Two weeks later, I was notified the removed tumours were benign—a huge relief. These tumours will turn into cancer, so removing them significantly reduces the risk.
“I was embarrassed to talk about it at first, but now I know there is nothing to be embarrassed about. The staff at Carlisle Hospital were magnificent, from reception to nurses and consultants. They made me feel at ease and gave excellent care.
“It now gives me the chance of living longer with my wife, children, and granddaughter. I can’t ask for more. I want people to know what happened and encourage anyone who receives the NHS letter to do the test. It takes two minutes and could save your life. Only half of the tests are completed because people think they don’t need to—just like I did.”
This is a non ticketed event, but donations are welcome!
You can keep up to date with performers and set times via the ‘Beckermet Music Marathon’ Facebook page.
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Cheers Danni!