THE bronzed memorial of Redditch rock icon John Bonham has been emblazoned on a special t-shirt in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust.

The exclusive t-shirt has been launched by The John Bonham Memorial to help young people living with cancer in the West Midlands.

Money from the sale of the shirts will help fund vital services for people before, during and after their treatment.

Deborah Bonham, sister to the late drummer, said: “I am totally thrilled to be able to support Teenage Cancer Trust’s work across the West Midlands in the name of my brother John.

"He was such a family man and loved kids, I think he’d be so happy and proud to know that he’s helping give support to kids and their families suffering from this terrible illness.

"Through him we can make a difference. I feel honoured.’’

Redditch Advertiser:

(ABOVE: The memorial in the town centre)

The John Bonham Memorial has already pledged £150k to the charity.

But around £1 million is needed to fund the West Midlands Teenage Cancer Trust service for one year.

Linda Noon, interim director of fundraising, said: “As an organisation that relies 100 per cent on voluntary donations we are so grateful to John Bonham Memorial for helping us to reach teenagers and young people with cancer across the West Midlands.

"However, for every young person we reach there is another one we can’t.

"This support will help us continue providing young people with the specialised nursing and emotional support they desperately need.”

The Who's Roger Daltrey, honourable patron of Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “John Bonham's drumming echoed the hammers that forged the history of Redditch’’

Robert Plant, lead Singer of Led Zeppelin, said: "I’m very pleased to finally see a fitting tribute to my friend after all these years and for it to be linked with Teenage Cancer Trust’s work in the West Midlands.”

The statue of Bonham was unveiled on May 31 - what would have been John’s 70th birthday.

To purchase the t-shirt visit the John Bonham Official Merchandise Online store.