MEMBERS of a cancer support care group in Melksham are currently looking for new members to join in their fundraising efforts.

The group, which currently has four main members, has been working for the past four years to help raise money for a new cancer unit at Bath RUH. The oldest of The Forever Friends Appeal’s community groups, the Your Local RUH Cancer Care fundraising group is aiming to reach £50,000 to pay for the renovation works.

Treasurer of the group, Bev Viveash, said: “My daughter Nic started fundraising in September 2012 when she was being treated for cancer at the RUH so we all got involved. The care she received was wonderful but the unit is old and outdated.

"Nic had three children that spent time with her there before she died, so it would be nice if we could help pay for an area where families can be together at the cancer unit.”

Since the start of the fundraising, the Your Local group has already raised £32,000 towards the Forever Friends Appeal. With the hope of gaining more members to help fundraise, the group has set its sights on getting the extra £18,000 to hit their target.

Mrs Viveash, 54, of Willows Close in Melksham, said: “We do a lot of events to help us raise the money. At the Melksham light switch on we held a tombola which raised about £450, we have also released a cook book which we have sold at food festivals and we usually go along to Chippenham Folk Festival as well.

"Even though we only have four main members in the Melksham group, we have a lot of supports who come out and help.”

As well as the Melksham Chippenham and Calne group, there are a further four which work in different areas of the South West. An information event will be taking place at Sheldon School in Hardenhuish Lane, Chippenham, on January 26 from 6.30pm-7.30pm.

Claudia Hickin, 22, of Bradley Close, Warminster, community fundraiser for The Forever Friends Appeal, said: “Having just started working with the Your Local Group, they have amazed me with their commitment to raising funds for the new Cancer Centre and the money that they have raised so far is inspiring.

“I encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch or come along to the meeting on the 26th of January. Not only will you be helping a very worthwhile local cause, but you will meet people with similar interests, and have lots of fun along the way.”

Anyone wishing to become part of the group can call Miss Hickin at The Forever Friends Appeal on 01225 824013.