Charity cheer!

Macmillan Cancer Relief is set to receive £2.8 million nationally as Tesco's Charity of the Year for 2000. This is the first time that more than £2 million has been raised for a charity by Tesco.

The massive amount was raised through staff fund raising efforts in stores, distribution centres and offices. Staff from all levels and areas got behind Macmillan to raise money for the charity's vital cancer care services in local communities throughout the UK.

Karen Dyke, the Blackpool Victoria Hospital Macmillan Windmill appeal manager commented: "This wonderful achievement would not have been possible without the very generous support given by our local Tesco stores at Clifton Road, Marton, and Victoria Road West, Cleveleys, who promote many fund raising activities for Macmillan Cancer Relief. We would like to thank the Howard Lipman Studio for their photographic promotions in conjunction with Tesco.

"Special thanks must also go to the ladies of the Macmillan Cancer Relief Thornton Cleveleys committee and Margaret Whitehead, the county organiser."

Pupils at Marton Primary School, Blackpool, also deserve a pat on the back for their fund raising efforts. The school managed to raise £500 for the cancer charity and enjoyed themselves in the process as headteacher at the school, Lynn Lancaster, explained: "We had collections at functions and harvest and Christmas plays. Some Year Six students donated some of their Enterprise day money and we had two non-uniform days at the school.

"Everyone involved put in a huge effort and enjoyed it all."

A further event was held this week by the Fleetwood Wrens Association in aid of the Windmill Appeal. The Wrens held a very successful Open Day on Broadway, Thornton Cleveleys, which included a bring and buy sale and raffle.

Appeal manager Karen Dyke is an ex Wren herself and turned up to support the event in sash and naval cap.