Member Article

Cash boost for Chris Lucas Trust

A Wallsend-based cancer charity that aids new cancer research has been given a further boost thanks to a £1,000 donation from a housebuilder.

The Chris Lucas Trust received the cash from Persimmon Homes North East as the charity continues its drive to raise money for research into the rare form of cancer Rhabdomyosarcoma.

The cause was set up by the parents of Christopher Lucas from Hadrian Park who died from the disease aged 18 in 2000. Since then almost £2 million has been raised in his name.

Chris’ parents were presented with the cheque at Persimmon Homes’ new development East Benton Rise. Chris’ mum Lynn said: “We are so proud to have raised nearly £2 million, funding two researchers based at ICR London.

“Every year we organise events such as the Great North Bike Ride and when it began we had seven cyclists, now it attracts more than 2,000 people - last year it generated £88,000.

“All year round we host fundraising events which includes the Christmas Jingle Bell walk in Newcastle which this attracts more than 800 children and their parents.

“The money from Persimmon Homes will help go towards this and we thank them for their support once again.”

The Chris Lucas Trust applied for the money through the Persimmon Homes Community Champions initiative. It is a national programme where charities and groups can apply for funding up to the value of £1,000 to match cash they have already raised themselves.

Debbie Zaben, sales and marketing director for Persimmon Homes North East, said: “We are only too pleased to make this donation to The Chris Lucas Trust. “The work that they have done is well known throughout the north east and we are proud to support them once again.

“As always it was a difficult decision to select our Community Champions, but I would encourage any charity or organisation that missed out this time to apply again.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Lee Southen .