BRIDPORT: Four members of the town’s Cancer Research UK fundraising committee are stepping down after supporting the charity jointly for 105 years.

Betty Wylde, Iris Gear, Barbara Way and Margaret Ackerman, all from Bridport, began volunteering for the charity more than 30 years ago and together have helped to raise more than £465,300 for Cancer Research UK.

Over the years they have been busy members of the town’s Cancer Research UK volunteer fundraising committee, helping to organise many events including curry lunches, bridge teas and their popular summer lunches.

Retiring committee member Margaret Ackerman told The News: “We have worked very easily together and it was brilliant to work with the ladies for such a long time.

“It was nice to be recognised with the certificate of appreciation because I didn’t expect anything.

“Highlights of the committee for me include our curry lunch events and raising so much money for Cancer Research UK – a charity that is so worthwhile. My daughter-in-law Ann Ackerman has now joined the committee, and it would be brilliant if more younger members joined too.”

Cancer Research UK is dedicated to researching the causes, prevention and treatment of cancer and is the largest single funder of cancer research in the UK.

Bridport fundraising group chairman Francesca Hurdley said: “Thank you to the four ladies. We held a get together for them recently because we didn’t want them to feel like they were stepping down with no celebration.

“They all have their reasons for retiring and we just want to thank them for all they have done in the group over the years.

“The Bridport Cancer Research UK fundraising group is a very friendly, happy group where everybody chips in and does their bit.”

Survival rates for cancer have doubled in the last 40 years, but one in three people will still get cancer at some point during their lifetime. Dawn Harrison, Cancer Research UK’s local fundraising manager for West Dorset, said: “Thank you to Betty, Iris, Barbara and Margaret for the massive contribution they have made to our vital work.

“Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer and continues to do so.

“But this would not have been possible without their amazing support and the wonderful events they have organised during their time with the Bridport committee.

“And because of these ladies, Cancer Research UK will beat cancer sooner.”

To become a member of the fundraising group call Francesca on 01308 423152.

For more about Cancer Research UK call 08701 602040 or visit cancerresearchuk.org.uk