M&S staff do their bit for Action Cancer

Pictured marking the launch of the M&S summer fundraising campaign in support of Action Cancers Therapeutic Services are (l-r) Ross Graham, Franchise Sales Manager, Charles Hurt Toyota, Lindsey Malone, M&S Project Manager and Gareth Kirk, CEO at Action Cancer.

Funds raised throughout July and August at M&S 21 stores in Northern Ireland are vital in the charitys continued support to thousands of families each year at risk of, or affected by a cancer diagnosis. — Pictured marking the launch of the M&S summer fundraising campaign in support of Action Cancers Therapeutic Services are (l-r) Ross Graham, Franchise Sales Manager, Charles Hurt Toyota, Lindsey Malone, M&S Project Manager and Gareth Kirk, CEO at Action Cancer. Funds raised throughout July and August at M&S 21 stores in Northern Ireland are vital in the charitys continued support to thousands of families each year at risk of, or affected by a cancer diagnosis.

The partnership between M&S and Action Cancer, which is now in its eighth year, has seen M&S Northern Ireland raise over £850,000 to date.

Colleagues in M&S Banbridge, along with those in the other 20 stores across the province, are taking part in many novel fundraising events including a sponsored climb of Slieve Donard, and an event on August 5 which will include a cycle challenge, sponsored walk and bake sale.

Customers too can get involved in the many fundraising activities being organised in support of the campaign, including a ballot to win a Toyota C-HR Hybrid, sponsored walks, in-store sponsored cyclothons and bag packing.

Simon Layton, Head of Region for M&S in Northern Ireland said: “We know the importance of Action Cancer’s work and are proud to support the charity through creative fundraising initiatives.

“I’m delighted to be joining so many colleagues in getting involved in this summer’s charity challenge.

“Whether it’s planning fundraising in-store, or sponsoring participants, there is a chance for our colleagues and customers alike to be involved.”

Dougie King, Head of Fundraising and Communication at Action Cancer, added: “The need for our Therapeutic Services to support families affected by a cancer diagnosis is growing, due the fact that 1 in 2 people will receive a cancer diagnosis during their life time and 100,000 people will be living with a cancer diagnosis by 2030.

“So, the partnership with M&S enables the charity to plan and provide more services in more locations to more people, and for that we are very grateful and thank all involved for their hard work and support; they really are saving lives and supporting people locally.”