Hough Green Fundraising Group celebrate raising over 185,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support
In 1994, almost 15 years ago after the death of both parents from cancer, Joan Jones from Widnes joined staff at Upton Community Centre to create the "Hough Green Macmillan Cancer Support Fundraising Committee" and a new journey of raffles, coffee mornings and social nights began, and lead to over £185,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support and people affected by cancer.
Joan Jones member of Hough Green Fundraising Group
Joan quickly received helpers, and was joined by Barbara and Tommy Spruce and line dancers from the centre to create sponsored line dances that raised over £100,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support's new Delamere Centre at Halton Hospital.
Whilst working with the local fundraising team, six new members joined the committee; all dedicated to raising funds for Macmillan and hospice care. While most of the new members were qualified line dance teachers who held classes throughout the North West, a dance wekend was created seven years ago at Pontins, Prestatyn, which has to date raised over £85,000 for Macmillan and £30,000 for local Hospice care.
Now the group is smaller in size, however, Joan, Barbara and friends are looking forward to the next part of their journey as the new "Hough Green Fundraising Group".
Jean said:
"What started as a simple coffee morning in memory of my parents became a massive fundraiser and part of my life. Raising over £185,000 for Macmillan goes to show that ordinary people can make a big difference...all you need is spare time and a big heart."
Marie Travers, Fundraising Manager for Halton is well aware of the time and commitment needed to raise such fantastic amounts of money as this, and is extremely proud of Joan, Beverley and each member of the Fundraising Group's achievement.
"Congratulations to Joan and everyone who supports the group and their hard work...local fundraisers really are vital to Macmillan's work and an integral part of the charity.
Practically all the money that Macmillan Cancer Support receives comes from the generosity of local people and fundraisers. The relationships and bonds that they have made with the local community is something that they should be extremely proud of."