Raising more than a smile

FLAT cap optional ... Lawrence and Audrey Perrins of the Saddleworth and District Ferret Breeders and Turnip Growers Association (Affiliated)

A zany group of charity fundraisers with a tongue-twisting name are celebrating their 20th anniversary.

The Saddleworth and District Ferret Breeders and Turnip Growers Association (Affiliated) has raised thousands for Macmillan Nurses over the years. On Friday the group will hold its annual Rat Catchers Ball — despite its loyal members not owning ferrets, eating turnips or all living in Saddleworth!

Each new member of the quirky group pays a £5 subscription and receives an eye-catching car sticker bearing the group’s emblem.

President Lawrence Perrins said: “It is all a bit fun. Our novel name makes people laugh — that’s what it is there for. But it’s certainly helped us raise money for such a worthy cause.

“We have quite a few members, one of whom is a London cab driver who joined after meeting us on holiday.”

Lawrence and his wife, Audrey, who is also a member, celebrated a wedding anniversary by asking for donations to support their wacky association instead of receiving presents.

And Audrey quipped: “Our members can wear flat caps at the ball if they wish — but they’re not compulsory.”

The group was formed at a dinner in 1995 by the then president, Alan Radcliffe, and secretary John Ainley, senior partner at an Oldham firm of solicitors.

John explained: “The name has captured the imagination of the community which has been only too willing to support the work of Macmillan Nurses.

“On the last occasion, Alan and I were photographed with two beautiful white ferrets but declined the invitation to put them down our trousers. There is only so much you can do for charity!”

The dinner, at Friezland church hall, Oaklands Road, Greenfield, is on Friday.

Tickets cost £25 each. Tickets: 0161-624 8983.