A WOMAN who survived breast cancer is raising cash to help others beat the disease.

Fruit farmer Dotty Benson, from Lanchester, near Consett, was helped through her cancer by a Macmillan breast care specialist nurse, Antoinette Moffa.

Mrs Benson, who produces apple juices from the farm she shares with husband Jonathan, has organised a spring fashion show in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief's County Durham Appeal.

Cash raised from the event will go towards the £600,000 appeal, which aims to fund a palliative care consultancy post and two specialist nurses.

Since the appeal was launched in October 2001, County Durham residents have raised more than £300,000.

The show takes place at Shotley Hall, the home of the High Sheriff of County Durham, today, at 11am.

The guest of honour is TV presenter Carol Malia, from BBC Look North. There will be clothes on display by Fenwick of Newcastle, The House at Yarm and Get Ahead Hats, plus jewellery by Marguerite Todd.

Tickets are £36, including a buffet lunch and glass of wine.

For further details, contact 0191-378 1188.