A LOCAL band is reuniting to raise money in honour of a young woman who took her own life and to help her family give her the ‘perfect send-off’.
Nicola Dovey, 27, who died on Saturday, has been described as a ‘bright light’ for her daughter, friends and family who have been left heartbroken.
Affectionately nicknamed ‘Coke’, Nicola was a huge part of her local community, and gave up her time to help others.
‘Coke’ was a ‘people person’ who, when she wasn’t spending time with her daughter and family, worked as a barmaid and spent her free time socialising with her friends.
Lydia Jarvis, one of Nicola’s friends, said she was one of the kindest people she had ever met.
“Coke was bubbly, cheeky, she had a wicked sense of humour, was so kind, and a really big part of the community.
“She was always social, she loved being around her friends and family and always went out of her way to help others and make them laugh.
“Nicola’s first priority was her family, and especially her daughter.
“Coke always said that her biggest achievement in life was her amazing daughter, who is a credit to her. She was an amazing mum.
“She absolutely loved her mother. Nicola’s mum hasn’t been well, but Nicola helped her as much as she could. Family meant everything.
“The first thing you noticed about her is her contagious smile, which lit up every room she was in.
“It’s heartbreaking, and we will miss her every single day.”
Nicola, who lived in Bolton-upon-Dearne, was a big fan of local band Ashby, and often went to their gigs.
The band, who had taken a break from performing, have reunited to raise funds to help Nicola’s funeral costs.
Ash Mitchell, of Ashby, said: “When we found out the news about Nicola, we were devastated and knew we had to do something for her family.
“It’s something we really wanted to do as a band, to come together and support one of our own in the only way we can.
“We’re going to play a gig, have raffles and other fundraising activities and invite anyone to come along.
“This is one of the our first gigs back together, and we couldn’t think of anything better than coming together to remember Nicola.
“It’s to be a night of celebration and happiness in her memory.”
The band have organised the entire event for the family, and are leaving some little surprises for the night.
“We have been in touch with a few local businesses who have wanted to help out with some small aspects. But we want to leave these as a surprise for the day.”
Lydia added: “We are so grateful to Ashby for arranging this event in memory of Nicola, and are urging anyone to please come along and show support.”
The concert takes place at The Ship pub in Thurnscoe on December 21 at 9pm, but doors open at 7pm. There will be a small fee on the door and anyone is welcome to come and raise money for Nicola and her family.
