A GROUP of dedicated volunteers recently took part in Britain’s Biggest Breakfast for Cancer Research UK, to celebrate a £475,000 milestone in funds raised for the charity, and to present members of the committee with long service awards.

Taking place on Saturday, April 23, at the Brendon Arms, Bude, the Cancer Research UK Bude and Stratton Committee were also presented with a number of long service awards to mark the occasion.

The committee, chaired by Ray Shaddick, has worked tirelessly to raise funds for the charity, helping to fund life-saving research in order to beat cancer sooner.

Formed in 1956, the 30 members of the strong committee raise their money by holding different events and activities all year round, no longer through door-to-door collecting.

The committee encourages the whole community to engage in their events, and see it as an opportunity to bring people together.

Many members of the committee have personal reasons for supporting the cause, having battled the disease themselves, or in dedication and celebration of those they love that have been affected by the disease.

Mr Shaddick said: “We are thrilled to be celebrating our £475,000 milestone of funds raised towards helping research into cancer. We would like to thank everyone who continues to support us year in, year out, in all our fundraising activities, as without them it would not be possible.

“We have the most wonderful community, who support us throughout the year, and we value each and every person who helps us, whether it is through time, donations, or spreading the word of the work we do, and helping to raise awareness of cancer, especially to the local businesses, the community, and those who kindly donate in memory of loved ones.”

The committee holds a huge range of fundraising events throughout the year, including their famous wine and wisdom evening, and their carols and mince pies festive event.

Every hour, three people are diagnosed with cancer in the South West; Cancer Research UK relies on the dedications and support of its committees, such as Bude, to help raise funds to enable the research to be continued in the hope that these numbers will reduce.

Rachel Turner, Cancer Research UK local fundraising manager for Bude, said: “We’d like to give enormous thanks to our Bude and Stratton Committee; they work tirelessly to raise funds, and they are filled with such drive, energy and passion for the cause.

“To have reached their £475,000 milestone is truly outstanding, and such an amazing amount will have a tremendous impact on the research we are able to fund. As a charity, we feel privileged to have such a supportive committee behind our cause.”

Cancer Research UK received no government funding for its research, but with the help from the people of Cornwall, the charity can fight the disease on all fronts.

The committee have expressed their thanks to the Brendon Arms, Bude, for their hospitality and helping to raise £790.28 at the Big Breakfast event in aid of Cancer Research UK.

To help support the Bude committee, contact Mr Shaddick on 01288 354400.