YOUNGSTERS at Brownedge St Mary's in Bamber Bridge have been collecting for Vine House day care centre in Cromwell Road, Ribbleton, Preston.

They decided to help after a friend of the school, Jim Slater, suffered from cancer and died on Boxing Day last year.

They chose the centre because staff and volunteers there proved invaluable to Jim and his wife, Vera, who works at their school.

When Vera lost her husband, she didn't know which way way to turn.

But staff at Vine House were soon on her case and they have helped her through one of the most traumatic times of her life.

Jim died from secondary cancer which had been in remission but recurred last Easter and nine months later proved fatal.

"We started coming to Vine House as soon as we found out the cancer had returned," said Vera: "The staff and volunteers were wonderful, Vine House has helped the whole family.

"It's here for anyone with cancer or their families or others who need help and advice. It's a lively, friendly place, so welcoming when you first come in."

Vine House has numerous classes for cancer sufferers and their families, ranging from aromatherapy and arts groups to physiotherapy and counselling.

A bereavement support group has also being set up to help people like Vera who are coming to terms with their grief.

Anyone interested in learning more about the centre can call them on 01772 793344.

During Lent youngsters from Year 10 set to fund-raising for Vine House, they held sponsored spelling tests, fun runs and have collected the princely sum of £300.

So this week Vera invited a group from the class to go along to the day care centre to see for themselves how the money will be spent.

Vera said: "The money raised by the children will go towards ensuring these services continue and are available for anyone who needs them."

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