A CANCER support group is growing from strength-to-strength thanks to its loyal supporters.

Leukaemia survivor Allison White founded Great Aycliffe Cancer Support last year to provide a supportive environment for those affected by the disease to socialise and access information.

After celebrating its first anniversary in February the group continues to grow, with more than 20 members attending monthly meetings, regular days out and parties together.

Miss White, 38, has received grants and donations from businesses, organisations and individuals across the region.

Last month, the group benefited from a £2,065 grant from the Lottery’s Awards for All small grants scheme.

And earlier this month, Teesside University student Niall Smith scaled new heights for the group when he completed a bungee jump off the Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough, raising £250.

Miss White thanked Mr Smith, from Sedgefield, and everyone else who has supported the group.

She said: “I set up the group because a cancer diagnosis can be a very scary and lonely time. “I am so grateful to everyone who has supported us and would be delighted to hear from anyone else who would like to get involved.”

The group’s next meeting takes place at Neville Parade Community Centre in Newton Aycliffe on Thursday, May 7, from 6pm to 7.30pm.

Michelle Muir, fundraising manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, will explain about the grants available to cancer patients and a group member will share his cancer journey.

Anyone affected by cancer including carers and relatives is welcome to attend.

For more information, contact 077622585696.