A WINE society has raised £1,500 to benefit patients using a hospital suite designed to help cancer sufferers.

The Northallerton and Environs Wine Society raised the money for the Mowbray Suite at the town's Friarage hospital through a Burns' Night celebration.

And now patients will benefit from an aromatherapy service, helping them relax and unwind at a difficult time in their lives.

Organiser Sue Cameron had complementary therapy at the unit when she was being treated for breast cancer and wanted to give something back.

"I wanted to do something positive to help the unit and to thank the suite's wonderful staff for the excellent and caring service they provide," she said. "This is a treasured resource to all who use it and remarkably it is entirely funded by donations such as this.

"Everyone I know who has used the service were hugely empowered and uplifted by it."

Aromatherapist Kathryn Almond provides the service, enhancing the care and support already given to patients visiting the unit and complementing their medical treatment.

She said: "Our aromatherapy service is entirely dependent on donations, so we are very grateful for any help we receive. The generosity of local people never ceases to amaze me."

Anyone wanting to help or support the service can contact Ms Almond on (01609) 764532 or 764558.