Chesney Hawkes writing song for me 'kept me going'

Chesney Hawkes' childhood friend says the pop star writing a song about his "zest for life" has kept him going while he fights lung cancer.

Cerne Abbas Brewery owner, Vic Irvine, was diagnosed three years ago and Chesney Hawkes has been by his side whenever possible.

The pair spoke on BBC Radio Dorset about their friendshiip through the years, having first met at a school in Berkshire.

Chesney Hawkes has release the single Live Forever, which is inspired by Mr Irvine's life and approach to fighting Stage 4 lung cancer.

Talking to radio host, Steve Harris, Mr Irvine said: "We go back to before he was famous, it's been a ride it really has.

"We've had some good times, some not so good, but it's been brilliant."

Over the years Chesney Hawkes has visited his friend in Cerne Abbas to host fundraising gigs to support him.

The singer, famous for 90s hit The One and Only, has reunited with record producer Nik Kershaw to create the album, Living Arrows, which will be released in February.

Vic Irvine (left) and Chesney Hawkes (right) have been friends since they were at school

'Smash it to pieces'

Talking about Mr Irvine's single, the pop star said: "It was inspired by Vic's zest for life. He's always the biggest heart in the room life and soul of every party and everyone loves a bit of Vic.

"The song is about taking life by the horns and living out loud."

Mr Irvine said he's been listening to the album for the past year while going through various cancer treatments.

He said: "Ches doing this, that's the things that keep me going. It's an outrageous life I lead to be totally honest with you."

Childhood friends Chesney Hawkes and Vic Irvine pose with the Dorset Ooser

Posting about the album on social media, Mr Irvine said Live Forever had helped him "stay positive and eyes fixed firmly on the horizon".

Mr Hawkes said his 19-year-old son, Indiana, plays on the track and appears in the video, explaining Mr Irvine is "like an uncle to him".

He continued: "I didn't realise how emotional I was going to be once it was released and then Vic put this amazing post up.

"There were definitely a few welling up moments."

Talking about his journey with cancer treatment, Mr Irvine said everyone at Dorset County Hospital were "saints".

He added: "We're so lucky to have them. I owe them my life."