A CANCER fundraising organisation is celebrating 50 years of raising much-needed funds for the charity – bringing in almost £350,000 in that time.

The Richmond Voluntary Fundraising Committee for Yorkshire Cancer Research is celebrating its milestone anniversary with a series of events including a concert with the Military WAGS Choir.

During the group’s 50 year history they have raised a massive £347,914 for the charity, and if legacies given to the charity from people living in the area are added the total comes to £795,485.

Vanessa Thomas, who has been a member of the committee for 31 years, said: “Richmond doesn’t have the wealthy demographic that some other places have but people are very generous. The community spirit is ongoing and this has helped the committee to prosper and to survive for so many years.”

The committee launched in 1966 when the charity was known as the Yorkshire Council of the British Empire Cancer Campaign for Research.

Records show that the committee, formed by a group of 12 people, raised £960 in its first year. In 1969, a summer fair at Catterick Camp raised £1,100 and a one-week nearly new sale in 1971 raised £526.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary, committee members have organised a series of events, including a lunch and cookery demonstration, a concert and a golf day. On October 15, The Military WAGS Choir, Catterick, will perform with the Muker Silver Band at Influence Church, Richmond.

For more information on fundraising for Yorkshire Cancer Research, please visit www.ycr.org.uk/teamyorkshire. The committee is currently looking for a new treasurer. If you are interested in the role contact Rachel Chitty on 01748-850317.