THERE were celebrations at the annual meeting of the Tavistock Friends of Cancer Research UK recently, as the group marked raising more than £12,000 in the last twelve months for the cause.

A bumper cheque for £1,000 was handed to the charity to round off a fantastic year.

The Tavistock Friends began their fundraising several decades ago and regularly raise money through street and supermarket collections, coffee mornings, cake and plant sales and quizzes.  They are hoping to expand their fundraising repertoire this year with some exciting new events which will hopefully mean even greater success in 2015.

Jean Thompson, secretary of the Tavistock Friends, said: 'I would like to thank all members of the group both past and present for all that they have done in working towards our success over the years. 

'I would also like to thank the generous nature of the people of Tavistock, who have always been very supportive of the work that we do, and are the main reason that we have been so successful.  We are always looking for new people, either to join our group or to help us on an ad hoc basis and would be delighted to welcome anyone who would like to get involved.'

Annabel Coakley, Cancer Research UK's local fundraising manager for Devon, said:  'I would like to thank the Tavistock group, for the wonderful amount they have raised for us over the years — over £270,000 — and the massive contribution they have made to our vital work.  

'Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer and continues to do so.

'However, we have only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment of our supporters, without whom we would not be able to fund our vital research.'

The next event for the group is a coffee morning and plant sale tomorrow (Friday) at Tavistock Parish Church Centre, where there will also be cakes and preserves on sale, a 'white elephant' stall and a raffle.