Extreme public generosity and support has enabled the Teesdale branch of Cancer Research UK to hand over a whopping £90,000 to scientists who are coming up with new ways to combat the disease.
Anonymous donations, an annual Turn Barney Pink event, countless coffee mornings, school events, table top sales, fashion shows, quiz nights and other social gatherings helped raise the cash over the past year.
The money was handed to Prof Steve Wedge of the Cancer Research Laboratories in Newcastle during a coffee morning at Cotherstone Village Hall.
Prof Wedge gave an update on the research into adult, children and teen cancer research, which is where cash raised in the dale is donated to help find new and better was to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
Pam Ashmore of the Teesdale branch of CRUK said: “Throughout the year the committee has held various fundraising events including wreath-making, a race night, an historic walk, a ladies’ weekend, raffles at the classic car rally, Eggleston Show, choir nights, Race For Life, table top sales, fashion shows, coach trips, collection boxes, coffee mornings, golf tournaments, special birthday celebrations, quiz night, a tractor run, a James and Edie charity night and many more events.
“We are so grateful to families who donate money in memory of loved ones.
“Teesdale Cancer Research is very grateful to everyone who supports us, family, friends, and the whole of the dale, and we look forward to continuing our fundraising in 2026.”
Ms Ashmore also thanked Green Lane, Montalbo and St Mary’s primary schools for events they held as well as Deerbolt Prison, Kings Court Care Home, TCR Hub, Red Well Inn and Old Well Inn for their activities.
She also praised businesses for their support by ‘Turning Barney Pink’.
Anyone who would like to organise an event or help the committee can contact Pam on 07716 293618 or any of the committee members.
People can continue to support the Teesdale branch of Cancer Research UK by attending a variety of upcoming events.
These include:
- Bowes Tractor Run on Saturday, December 13. Leaves Bowes at 5.30pm with collections on route through Startforth, Barnard Castle, Eggleston, Middleton, Mickleton and Cotherstone.
- Barnard Castle and Teesdale Social Night on Thursday, December 18, from 2pm at Barnard Castle Cricket Club. Entertainment by Jenna Highfield. £4 entry includes refreshments.
- Bingo Nights on Wednesday, January 7, at Barnard Castle Cricket Club at 7.30pm. £3 entry includes pie and peas. Book in advance with Pam on 077716 293618 or Mary on 01833 638979.
