Cruise for Cancer to roll into Portrush next month

In all, the organisers, Belfast Car Scene ar expecting 2,000 cars to join their motorcade on Sunday, June 28, which has the approval of the Parades Commission and police.

Young people who drive modified, souped-up cars usually get a bad press but Belfast Car Scene are challenging this antisocial stereotype.

Last year, the event raised more than £8,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

This year. 29-year-old Marc Whitford is hoping Belfast Car Scene will be handing over a cheque for £10,000 to help people living with cancer in Northern Ireland:

“It’s an incredible day out and we’ve managed to raise awareness of cancer and the impact it has on patients, families and friends,” he says.

“Everyone knows someone close to them who has been affected by cancer and that’s why we’re asking everyone taking part to donate £10 on our Just Giving site.”

Marc’s Aunt, Liz Gardner, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999. She was only 38 at the time and underwent surgery and radiotherapy in England.

Liz came home to Northern Ireland, where she has been undergoing treatment ever since. Now a grandmother, the Bangor hairdresser says she has got through two ‘bucket lists’ and is starting a third.

She will be joining the long line of cars in her convertible with the top down – June weather permitting.

“Young people who like their cars get a bad press, but the organisers of Cruise for Cancer are so responsible and so well organised. It’s a huge and very well run event.

“I’m so proud of my nephew for getting involved and raising so much money to help people with cancer.”

Organisers say cars will assemble in Carrickfergus at 9am and will set off along the coast road around 11.30. They expect to arrive in Portrush and re-assemble in Lansdowne Car Park around 2pm.