Friday 23 May 2008 saw The Ritz on Whitworth Street, Manchester play host to a very special event "Thanks, Pranks and Party Pants". This was a party hosted by Versus Cancer's Andy Rourke and Nova Rehman to show their appreciation for everyone who had contributed to the success of Versus Cancer since its launch in 2006, with all proceeds from the night going to Versus Cancer.
By happy coincidence the bank holiday weekend was also Nova Rehman's birthday and the line up ensured that it was one birthday celebration that would be talked about for a long time to come.
The party saw sets from local bands Frazer King and Our Fold, upcoming Manchester band Rambo and Leroy and legendary bass player Jah Wobble (ex PIL and Invaders Of The Heart), performing ahead of his Chinese Dub tour. Badly Drawn Boy performed with Andy Rourke.
The Sun and the Moon featuring ex-Chameleons Mark Burgess and John Lever played twenty years on from their first gig as The Sun and the Moon in the same venue. DJs Dermo (Northside) and Tin Tin were also on hand to provide the tunes between sets.
Versus Cancer is known for its unique collaborations and this event was no different with some exciting collaborations planned as birthday surprises including Aziz Ibrahim, from Ian Brown’s band and Ian McCulloch.