Cannock-born rock star Glenn Hughes is to stand in for singer Ronnie James Dio in a special tribute to the heavy metal frontman who died in May.

Hughes, former bassist and singer with Deep Purple, will appear with Dio’s band Heaven & Hell, featuring members of the original Black Sabbath, at the High Voltage festival at Victoria Park in London on Saturday, July 24.

Dio, who died of stomach cancer on May 16, had been due to perform with Heaven & Hell at the event.

Now remaining members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Vinny Appice are set to play a one-off show to celebrate his life and work. The band will be completed by Hughes, who has also sung in Black Sabbath, and Norwegian singer Jorn Lande, who will both contribute vocals.

The band will use the event to raise funds for the Ronnie James Dio “Stand Up And Shout” Cancer Fund, which is committed to the early detection and prevention of cancer.

Hughes was a close friend of Dio’s for many years and performed a musical tribute at his funeral service in Los Angeles.

Black Sabbath and Heaven & Hell guitarist Tony Iommi said: “Ronnie’s passing has left a huge hole. We hadn’t anywhere near finished what we set out to do as a band together. He was so looking forward to the European tour and we hope this appearance will go some way to fulfilling that.”

Bassist Geezer Butler added: ““It’s going to be a very emotional occasion. Ronnie loved his fans like no-one else I know – and they loved him. It will be a privilege doing a gig in honour of his memory, and to help towards his charity. Above all, I hope it encourages people to have regular check-ups for this disease.

“Early detection is vital, and greatly improves the chance of a cure. I know everyone has heard that a million times before, but seeing one of your best friends die because we all think we’re immune from this disease, really brings it home. Do it for yourself, your family, your friends. Ronnie would be proud of you.”

For more details on the fund and how to make a donation visit www.ronniejamesdio.com

The High Voltage festival is at London’s Victoria Park on July 24-25. Tickets are £135 (for weekend tickets) and £75 (for day tickets). For details visit www.highvoltagefestival.com

By Ian Harvey