A CHARITY in memory of a woman who died of cancer is celebrating after raising thousands of pounds this year.

The Mary Hayton Foundation realised a total of £58,162 for Cancer Research UK .

The charity was set up 13 years ago with the help of family and friends by Eileen Jones in memory of her sister Mary who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer .

Each year the foundation have organised a local football tournament between Sacriston and Langley Park community. They have also held a fundraising evening at Sacriston Cricket Club.

Mrs Jones said “Each year this community event has grown and grown and the support of the people from Sacriston and surrounding area has been amazing. I had no idea that 13 years later we would still be organising this event.”

All funds raised by the group go to fund the work of scientists at the Newcastle Cancer Centre, who are carrying out research to find cures and provide kinder treatments for children and adults facing cancer in the region.

Janet Leafe, local fundraising manager for Durham said: “Our amazing supporters have helped us to double UK cancer survival in the last 40 years.

“But there has only been limited improvement for people with hard-to-beat cancers including pancreatic cancer.

“As a result, we are dramatically increasing our research into these diseases and therefore rely on supporters like the Mary Hayton Foundation to continue to fundraise for our vital research.”

For more information on how to help beat cancer sooner visit www.cruk.org