Top tribute acts appearing included Bono, Eva Cassidy, Elton John, Shania Twain and Amy Winehouse and a very special version of Riverdance, featuring young dancers from across the district all took to the stage in honour of the 40-year-old mother of one.

The exceptional musical tribute was arranged by Michelle’s friends and colleagues at Foyle Benefit and Strabane Job Centre, where she spent six years working in the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) after working for many years in Job Centre Plus in England.

Bernie Mullan, close friend and tribute night organiser said: “We wanted to provide a unique tribute and celebration of Michele’s life, which was cut tragically short after a short illness in April 2008.”

Ms Mullan said: “In memory of her brave battle, all proceeds from the show are going towards the Castlederg Patient Comfort and Terminally Ill Fund, a locally based charity which provided outstanding support and help for the family throughout Michele’s illness.

The Castlederg Fund was established in February 2001 and provides transport to patients travelling to Belfast for treatment, assistance with the cost of accommodation for relatives staying away from home, and helps pay for exceptional treatment that is not funded by NHS.

John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager said: “The show was a total sell out, with much needed funds raised for a local charity.”

“The Alley was truly honoured to be involved in the musical tribute, which included wonderful, yet emotional performances from Michele’s colleagues who all worked incredibly hard in putting together this tribute show in her memory and were delighted with the outcome”.