SCARS, bras and television stars are hot topics for conversation at a charity’s monthly lunch out.

The Solan Connor Fawcett Family Cancer Trust, based in Spennymoor, was founded three years ago and gained charitable status last May.

Founder Mark Solan said in the beginning the Trust was mostly about fundraising to give financial and practical support to cancer patients and their families.

While both are still important, the focus has shifted to include emotional support and social events for anyone affected by the disease and working with other services and charities.

The charity holds a support group at Spennymoor Town Hall on the last Thursday of the month, from 11am to 1pm, and hosts a lunch out on the third Wednesday.

Mr Solan said: "A lot of people think they have to have cancer to come along, anyone affected by cancer at all now, in the past or as a loved one can access our support if they need it."

Enid Appleby, 71, said: "My late husband George was having chemo when I was diagnosed, I nursed him at home. After what we went through I felt I needed some counselling so went to the Trust and it's been amazing. I've started going out, accessing its services like coffee mornings, therapies and lunches and I feel better for it, everyone supports one another knowing we're in the same boat."

The lunches and day trips offer respite from treatment or loss as well as a place to share tips and give hope.

Alison Hughes, 41, and Amanda Davison, 43, are at different stages of their breast cancer battles and help prop each other up.

At a recent Trust lunch out, Mrs Hughes was sharing tips from where to buy mastectomy swimwear and bras to coping with treatment.

Diners were also excited to hear about Mr Solan's forthcoming appearance on Jane McDonald and Friends, to be shown on Channel 5 at 9pm this Friday, and to plan future activities such as nights out, day trips and the charity's move to new premises.

Mrs Davison said: "Everyone's journey is so different but being part of the Trust is very supportive, there is nothing that cannot be discussed."