A couple from Furness Vale in the High Peak who have tireless fundraised for The Christie since the death of their son have handed over a further £10,000 donation.

John and Joyce Shacklock's son Daniel was just 19 when he was diagnosed with a vicious strain of acute myeloid leukaemia. He sadly died 14 months later in 1995. Following his death the pair decided to honour his memory by raising as much money to help the leading cancer centre, where he received treatment.

Over the past 15 years they, along with fellow family members and friends, have managed to now raise £186,000.

Joyce said; "We would never have got to this amount without the marvellous support from local people and from a particular group of ladies who work so tirelessly on events. Their love and support has helped us through and I know Daniel would be extremely proud. He believed that if fundraising could make the job easier, especially for the nurses, then the beneficiary would always be the patient.

"I can't believe it's been 15 years since our son lost his fight, but his aura lives on among everyone who knew him. This is why we find it so easy to keep his name alive.

"He underwent many treatments at The Christie's haematology and transplant unit, which was then the adult leukaemia unit. The care and love shown to him and also to John and I will never be forgotten. It's something which will always be remembered with warmth and tenderness by both of us.

John added; "There isn't anything that hasn't been done to boost the fund - from Cinderella performances and boat trips, to astrology lectures and duck races. Our whole community has come together to do their bit, because they loved Daniel and because of course everyone knows someone who's been touched by cancer.

"Daniel was our son, and it was his untimely death which prompted our desire to join battle in the fight against cancers. Little can compare to the wonderful glow of happiness when a patient enters remission and takes one step forward on the road to recovery - we hope that the money we've raised will help make that a reality for as many people as possible.

Community fundraising officer at the Christie charity, Jacky Plant, said; "When John and Joyce set up their fundraising appeal, they were determined to help improve the experience of other patients and they've more than achieved that. They've funded a £60,000 accommodation suite so that families can be in close proximity to the patient during treatment, they've helped buy vital equipment - their support really has been invaluable and we can't thank them enough.

"They always say they'll continue fundraising as long as the support is there. Given what a fantastic, loving and compassionate couple they are, I know that that support will never stop."

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