A CHARITY started by three breast cancer survivors is expanding its reach.

Hug in a Bag was set up almost ten years ago by Eileen Richardson, Judith Wright and Sue McCoy, who met at hospital.

Since then, it has delivered bags containing useful information and luxury treats to more than 2,000 women with cancer in the Sunderland area.

Now the charity is expanding to the University Hospital of North Durham.

Mrs Wright said: “When we met we had our reconstructive at the (Durham) hospital, so bringing the charity to Durham seemed a natural progression. We’re hoping to spread to Darlington too.

“We’ve had absolutely fantastic support in Sunderland, which we’re really grateful for, and we’re hoping to get the same kind of enthusiastic response from people and businesses in Durham.”

Each bag costs around £60 to put together and the Hug in a Bag team is looking for donations and business support.

For more information, visit huginabag.com. A Durham launch event will be held at Crook Hall and Gardens later this month.