Fantastic fundraising efforts by Portrush mum and daughter

Mum Joan Williamson and daughter Rhonda Torrens handed over cheques to the Coronary Care Unit and the Friends of the Cancer Centre.

Joan explained: “Last year I wanted to do something special for my 65th birthday, so I decided to raise funds for two charities which are both dear to our hearts.

“Both my mother and I were treated by the staff at the Causeway Coronary Care unit and I wanted to show my gratitude for their hard work.”

Rhonda added: ‘As well as supporting the Coronary Care unit, we wanted to help the Friends of the Cancer Centre who are based at the Belfast City Hospital.

“They cared for my father-in-law when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, they cared for my aunt when she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and they continue to care for thousands of cancer sufferers every day.”

Joan said that the funds were raised in a number of different ways.

“We had several bucket collections in some of the local shops; we had two bag packing days at B&M Bargains, Coleraine; the girls at Coleraine High School donated some money from their non-uniform day; Rhonda and myself donated all money which we received for our 40th and 65th birthdays respectively; and finally we held a dance and raffle at the Portrush Royal British Legion to celebrate my 65th birthday in September.

“We agreed that the final total would be evenly split between the two charities and we set a target of £1,000 for each charity.

“Thanks to the efforts of several family members and friends, and the kind donations received from the public, we surpassed all expectations and were able to give each charity £1,775, which we hope will go to help other patients in some small way.”