FIVE sisters have said they are delighted generous fundraising efforts mean they can now buy a much-needed headstone for their mum's grave.

Dallam mum Joanne Johnston lost her battle with cervical cancer in February 2013 leaving her five daughters then aged 11 to 30.

Family of the Warrington Wolves season ticket holder said the 45-year-old fought bravely throughout her battle with cancer but after the funeral they found they could not afford the £3,000 required for a headstone.

Daughter Nadaline McDougall said: "She didn't give up and always put this massive brave face on.

"We arranged for Ben Westwood to come to the house and give her some flowers and she was still cheering on Warrington when she was Clatterbridge hospital.

"I had my two younger sisters to look after and there's been so much to do so we just couldn't afford the headstone.

"Our friend Daniel Potts heard we were struggling and offered to do a charity night in memory of our mum."

The talented singer, who is preparing to audition for The Voice next year, held a special 'Sing Like a star' karaoke event at the Boxworks on Norman Street, which raised £1,000.

The total combined with £1,300 from a charity night last year and family savings means they are now hopeful the headstone will be installed in time for Christmas.

Mum-of-two Nadaline added: "My youngest sister Caitlin has never been up to the grave as there's nothing there other than a picture which has been damaged by the rain so we're really pleased to do it for her.

"It's been a nightmare but you try to be a strong person and keep going because you have to.

"It's such a relief now and Caitlin has already been planning how she wants it to look including adding the chorus from the last song we played our mum Faith Hill's There You Will Be.

"We can go up there now (to Joanne's grave) and know she's got what everybody else has got.

"We can't thank Daniel and St Rocco's enough who were amazing with mum."