A COFFEE morning was held in Jubilee Hall, Malpas recently and raised more than £1,000 for Malpas Cancer Friends.

Along with bric-a-brac, books, tombola and wooden signs stalls there were also homemade cakes on offer, a raffle and a Grand National sweepstake.

The group received a huge amount of prize donations from local villagers, from bottles of wine and spirits to a whole lamb for the freezer.

Carol James, committee member said: “Monies raised amounted to £1,236.26 which is absolutely amazing, so we are most grateful for all donations and fabulous attendance from our local supporters and villagers.

“Many thanks to all our wonderful helpers: Mr and Mrs Bill Brereton, Mr Geoff Woolley, Mrs Olive Taylor, Miss Lynne Holland, Mrs Ann Robinson, Mrs Wendy Richardson, Mr and Mrs David Davies, Mrs Caroline Ball, Mrs Mary Needham and Mr Richard Pearson.

“A special thank you to Jeanette Woolley for all her hard work in organising the event.

“We’ve had a donation of a collector’s piece featuring cricket bat, shin pads and plaque, all signed by Phil Tufnell, former England cricketer. We are planning to auction this off and so if anyone is interested in making a bid to purchase it, please contact Mervyn on 01948 860970.”

The Malpas Cancer Friends are volunteers who have all had cancer and believe that using their experience and subsequent training, they can help cancer patients to overcome some of their fears.

People cope differently, some better than others, and each member of the group understands exactly how people diagnosed with cancer feel.

Over a cup of tea in a relaxed atmosphere, you can have either a one-to-one chat or join the group in supporting one another.

They believe knowing you are not alone and being able to share your hopes and fears with like-minded people can be a great help. Emotional support has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.

If you would like to discuss any matters with the Malpas Cancer Friends group or if you feel you could help others get through a difficult time, please contact Mervyn Pearson on 01948 860970 or email rosemary.pearson805@btinternet.com