COMMUNITY spirit is alive and well in Bury, as villagers prove that a friend in need is a friend in deed.

Catherine Smith, of Tottington Road, Woolfold, underwent pioneering new treatment after suffering a stroke while on holiday in Tunisia.

But when doctors in this country said that no more could be done for the out-going ex-barmaid, her friends pledged to raise enough money to send her back to Tunisia to continue treatment.

Catherine - known as Becky to her friends, has suffered six strokes - in the last two and a half years.

The latest attack came while she was on holiday in Tunisia in November last year, leaving her right side frozen.

But after a six day course of therapy at a Tunisian hospital, Catherine was almost cured.

She said: "The doctors in Tunisia were wonderful. They said that if they had me there for longer, they could probably get me back to normal.

"My own doctor said there was nothing more they could do for me here - in fact they were impressed that I could move my arm at all after the stroke."

Catherine, who turned 50 last month, was very active before her last stroke, and enjoyed playing bowls, and joining in darts matches at her local pub, the Swan.

Together with a friend, Catherine will pay for travel and accommodation, but friends in the community hope to raise enough money to foot the hospital bill.

"I was really amazed when I heard about the fund-raiser, she said. "I can't thank people enough, they've been really wonderful. I'm hoping after this treatment I can get my life back to normal."

The charity fund-raiser will be held at the Elton Liberal Club, New George Street, Bury, on Sunday, starting at 7.30pm. A grand raffle will be held, with prizes donated from local businesses.

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