A 17-YEAR-OLD girl who battled to overcome throat cancer is to give something back to those who helped her by raising money for other sufferers.

Student Holly Banks, of Carus Avenue, Hoddlesden, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer after she discovered a lump in her throat in February.

She had an operation in May and then had radiotherapy at Christie's Hospital, Manchester.

She is now waiting for her final scan next month to be given the all-clear.

While she was ill, friends and family decided to collect money to buy a laptop computer for Holly so that she could keep in touch with her friends while she was in isolation at the hospital.

Now that she is stronger and healthier, Holly has decided to pay back the generosity shown to her and has started her own fundraising campaign for Christies.

She has organised a 60s/70s evening, at Hoddlesden Conservative Club on Saturday, October 11, starting at 7.30pm.

Holly, a student at Turton Sixth Form Centre, said: "A lot of people did fundraising for me, even complete strangers. I am now in the position to pay it forward and help others.

"I have asked a few people if they will donate money and come along for a good night.

"I wanted to help other young people of a similar age to me. When I went to Christies I was put in an adult ward, which was quite scary. I felt a bit alienated because I was too old for the children section and not really old enough for the adults'.

"Therefore, I want to help pay for trips out and other entertainments for older teenagers like me - for kids aged between 15 and 20.

"I feel lucky that I have come through and have had so much support."

Holly, who is studying media, film and English, will have her scan on October 28.

Proud mum Julie, 41, said: "We still have to wait and see what the scan shows but she will be on medication for the rest of her life. She's been so amazing through it all and if she ever feels a bit down she goes to the mirror, puts some lipstick on and says 'lippy on and get on with it."

To donate to Holly's campaign, ring 01254 771257.