ENTHUSIASTIC students from Holy Cross College in Bury have helped to raise awareness of a rare form of cancer as part of a charity double-header.

Youngsters studying health and social care raised pots of money for VACO (Vulva Awareness Campaign Organisation) and Francis House Children's Hospice.

VACO is a charity highlighting the need for funding towards the rare and sensitive vulval cancer.

Student Aimee Cook started the fund-raising after a family friend was affected by the disease last year. Aimee set up a tuckshop, baked cakes and organised a raffle, managing to raise £133.

Carol Jones, founder of VACO, said, "It is essential to make people aware of this rare cancer. My special thanks go to Aimee and her peers for organising the day. I am so proud of all of their work and effort".

The fund-raising did not stop there, as health and social care students also raised £65 for the AVCE Francis House Children's Hospice in Manchester.

Nicola Bannaghan said: "We chose the charity because it is situated in the local area, and because it is a good cause which helps to give underprivileged children a chance in life".

Janet MacFarlane, co-ordinator of the course, commented: "It was a great experience for the students as they realised just how much work and energy is needed to keep a charity going.

"It will prove to be a valuable experience in later life".

People affected by vulval cancer should contact Carol Jones on 747 5911, or log on to www.cjvaco2003vulvacare.mysite.freeserve.com