Live music from Norfolk bands the Cleaving Heevages and Bluegrass Forum drew the crowds and helped raise at least �1,600 for a breast cancer charity on Saturday.

More than 200 people packed Norwich's Assembly House for the launch of a CD called Breast Intentions, featuring 12 tracks recorded by the two bands in aid of Keeping Abreast.

The Norwich-based charity, founded in 2007, provides support for women newly diagnosed with breast cancer who are facing the possibility of mastectomy, and also those further down the line who are considering reconstructive surgery.

Sales of cupcakes, Keeping Abreast T-shirts and a raffle also helped boost proceeds which will go towards equipment for use in the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital's plastic surgery department and for services such as cleaning and childminding, to help women around the time of their surgery.

The CD cover and T-shirts were designed by Sarah Bristow, 51, who plays in both bands. She started supporting Keeping Abreast after hearing about its work from her friend Maria Hewkin, who is an active member of the charity's committee.

Mother-of-three Mrs Hewkin, 48, from Framingham Pigot, underwent a double mastectomy in 2009 following a scare nine years after a diagnosis of breast cancer, and then had both breasts reconstructed.

'Lots of ladies don't know they can get support. They don't know that they can wait until later for reconstruction and a lot want to know if their bodies will look the same as before. We're here to help with all those questions, and more,' said Mrs Hewkin.'

Keeping Abreast offered women and their partners opportunities to meet and talk openly with others who have been through similar experiences, she added. The charity also has a branch in King's Lynn. Visit www.keepingabreast.org.uk or ring 07504 854 364 for more information.