Battle to save cancer charity

APPEAL for help: (l-r) Debbie Walker, Lilian Walsh, Peter Snow and Jacky Plant

A DESPERATE plea has gone out to Oldhamers to help save a fund-raising body which has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to improve cancer care.

Christie Against Cancer has a phenomenal fund-raising record, having made almost £600,000.

Headed by Lilian Walsh and with 23 members at its height, Oldham-based Christie Against Cancer was raking in cash at a tremendous rate.

But dwindling numbers and rapid closure of the pubs and clubs which have been its lifeblood herald a bleak future.

At 84, chairman and founder Lilian does not have the energy to keep up the pressure, despite the support of the remaining five members of the group.

The six are desperate for help to continue the work of an organisation which has made an incredible contribution towards the work of the world-famous Christie Hospital.

Lilian, who lives in Coldhurst, said: “We have had so much help over the years, from pubs and clubs to churches and businesses and schools and college students.

“We just kept going round to different people asking for their help and they were always willing to give it.”

Lilian formed Christie Against Cancer 16 years ago after a friend died from cancer. Her work gave her the will to keep going after the death of her husband Ron to lung cancer five years ago.

Lilian considered handing over the reins to Jacky Plant, the Christie’s fund-raising officer for Oldham, but agreed to continue as chairman.

Jacky said: “We don’t want the group to fold. It has raised a fantastic amount of money over the years — it’s vital we build up membership.

“We would like to hear from all age groups, not everything revolves around pubs and clubs.

“We need young people to help at events and hope to get schools on board as well.”

Offer your help to Jacky on 0161 446 3979.


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