A HAIRDRESSER from north Durham who suffered from breast cancer has raised £1,000 for charity.

Bev Stalker, who runs Cut Above in Stanley, held a party before Christmas in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

She had a lump removed last year, has undergone radiotherapy and is on medication for five years.

The 45-year-old, held the event at Tanfield Lea Working Mens’ Club in November, and handed over the amount raised at her shop today. (Friday, January 16)

Ms Stalker, who has two children, said: “I was so glad for the support I got from Macmillan that I wanted to give something back.

“It is such a great cause and anything I do for charity in the future will be for Macmillan.”

Another party night, a single ladies’ evening at the club, is being organised for next month.

Michelle Muir, County Durham fundraising manager for Macmillan, said the money raised will help people in the area cope during their cancer treatment.

She said: “It costs £27 to fund a Macmillan nurse for an hour, helping patients and their families receive essential medical, practical and emotional support that prevents people feeling like they’re facing cancer alone.

“Macmillan solely relies on donations from the public, so this means an awful lot to people affected by cancer.”

The charity is currently looking for more volunteers to help support its work.

For more information, or to organise an interview with someone from Macmillan, contact the fundraising support centre on 0300-1000-200 or go to www.macmillan.org.uk/GetInvolved/Volunteer/Volunteering