A GROUP of devoted residents from Chippenham, Melksham, and Calne have raised an incredible £50,000 for The Forever Friends Appeal’s Cancer Care Campaign.

Known collectively as the Your Local RUH Cancer Care Fundraising Group, they meet every month to plan fundraising activities and events for the Cancer Care campaign.

Bev Viveash, 56, of Willow Close, Melksham, who chairs the group, said: “Most of us have been touched by cancer in some way.

“I lost my daughter Nic to cancer at just 28 years old. While she was having treatment the cancer campaign launched in 2013 and she suggested we did something to help.

“The care for her was fantastic, but both of us realised how much the RUH needs a new cancer centre. So, it all started five years ago with an event at home which we organised together.

“Over the years I have made so many friends and have met some amazing people, and to see us reach £50,000 is amazing.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has supported us and made donations over the years, but we’re not stopping and are continuing to fundraise for the campaign.’’

Nic, who was married with three children, died in March 2013. She survived 11 months after being diagnosed with cancer.

Since then, Bev has helped the group to raise the cash through a Race Night and by booking craft, cake and book stalls at a wide range of local events, fairs and festivals.

In recognition of raising £50,000, the group is now a Principal Corporate Partner of the Appeal and will be invited to name one of the specialist rooms in the new Cancer Centre. The group’s new target is £75,000.

In February, the Appeal reached its minimum fundraising target of £8.5 million but many of its donors and supporters wanted to keep going to ensure the new Cancer Centre would be truly special in its design, facilities and equipment.

Lauren Noble, Community Fundraiser, The Forever Friends Appeal said: “We are very grateful to the members of the Your Local RUH Cancer Care Fundraising Group.

“The group is made up of the most wonderful and kind-hearted people, who work so hard to raise funds for the Cancer Care Campaign. I always look forward to their events and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for next year. Thank you all so much.’’

The Forever Friends Appeal is raising funds to ensure the very best care, treatment and quality of environment are available to patients and their families at the RUH.

If anyone is interested in joining the Your Local RUH Community Fundraising Group or volunteering for The Forever Friends Appeal, please contact Community Fundraiser, Lauren on 01225 824013 or email: lauren.noble1@nhs.net