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Engaged couples invited to charity Valentines Evening at Bedern Hall in York

23/01/2012 14:32:06 +0000

Brides to be and their fiancés are being invited to experience the medieval splendour of Bedern Hall, York, at a special Valentines Evening.

Prospective couples considering holding their wedding day at the 14th century hall will have the chance to enjoy a three-course candlelit dinner on Tuesday, February 14, alongside newlyweds who held their special day at the magnificent venue.

For those who have already made their vows at Bedern Hall, it will be an opportunity to re-live their happy memories and share their day with others.

A donation from the proceeds of the event will be given to Yorkshire Cancer Research, and those who attend, as well as those who have been invited but cannot attend, will also be given the option of donating to the charity directly.

Yorkshire Cancer Research recently awarded £2.15m to Professor Norman Maitland, Director of the YCR Cancer Research Unit at the University of York, and his team to further their internationally award-winning progress into prostate cancer stem cell research.

Roger Lee, Director of Bedern Hall, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to those who married here to re-visit their wedding venue and share memories, and for couples planning a wedding the chance to experience the hall and enjoy the food.

"As Valentines is all about caring and sharing, we decided to add a charitable element to the evening. My father died from metastatic prostate cancer and Yorkshire Cancer Research is the only charity that funds research into this disease locally."

The Valentines Evening, which will take place from 7.30pm to 11pm, costs £27.50 per person. For more information and to book please visit www.bedernhall.co.uk. Those who book their wedding at the venue following the Valentines Evening and before the end of March 2012 will receive a 10% discount on the hall hire charge.

To make a donation towards Bedern Hall's fundraising campaign please visit www.justgiving.com/BedernHall.

Bettys and Taylors choose Yorkshire Cancer Research as charity of the year

23/01/2012 11:04:42 +0000

Yorkshire Cancer Research is proud to have been chosen as charity of the year by staff at Taylors of Harrogate and Bettys Bakery and Cookery School.

Staff from Taylors of Harrogate will raise money for a state-of-the-art piece of equipment called a Nanodrop spectrophotometer, which can measure levels of DNA and protein from very small samples.

The equipment will be used by an internationally respected group of researchers at the University of Sheffield, headed by Professor Peter Andrews, who are researching childhood cancers including neuroblastoma.

Neuroblastoma is the most common cancer in infancy, with an annual incidence of about 100 cases per year in the UK. Almost half of all cases occur in children under two years old. The disease is extremely varied in these children ranging from a low risk disease with a relatively good outcome to a high risk disease which has a very poor outcome.

A major challenge is to identify those children who have the high risk disease as early as possible and to develop new therapies which can treat this type of cancer.

The new equipment will allow the differences between normal cells, low risk cancers and high risk cancers to be determined and pave the way for new therapies to be developed.

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising, said: "We are delighted and thrilled to have been chosen as charity of the year for both Taylors of Harrogate and Bettys Bakery and Cookery School. We would like to say a huge thank you to all the members of staff who voted for us and we look forward to the fundraising activities that both parts of the organisation are planning for 2012."

Find out what Bettys Bakery and Cookery School will be raising money for next month.

Wakefield duo take on the desert to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research

17/01/2012 11:51:57 +0000

Two friends from Wakefield are preparing to take on their biggest challenge to date. Mark Valente and Dave Phillipson have signed up to run the Marathon Des Sables in April to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

The Marathon des Sables, said to be "the toughest foot race on the planet", is set in stages and covers some 243km done at your own pace while maintaining self-sufficiency in food, clothing and gear.

The event is held in Morocco and involves participants running approximately 151 miles across the Sahara desert in six days, carrying all their own supplies and equipment except tent and water.

Previous entrants include the television presenter Ben Fogle and the Olympic rowing gold medallist James Cracknell, who have both gone on to trek the South Pole.

Mark, a former Yorkshire Discus Champion, has been training for this event for two years, running an estimated 6,000 miles in total. He runs a full marathon every week.

The 45 year old, a member of Wakefield Harriers, started running nine years ago when he stopped throwing discus. He claims he is not a natural runner but completed the New York Marathon in 2003 and has run both the Brathay Windermere and Rutland Water marathons.

Also not a born runner, Dave is managing to run up to sixty miles a week training and intends to run seventy five to eighty miles per week in the few months prior to the race.

Dave, who owns a restaurant in Wakefield, will be running in memory of his father, who passed away after suffering from cancer.

While Mark, a police officer and law trainer for West Yorkshire Police, says he chose to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research because it is a cause close to his heart as he has lost friends to cancer.

He said: "If I have a cold I can take a week off training, but someone having chemotherapy doesn't have that option."

When asked how he will keep himself motivated during the marathon, Mark spoke of his two and half year old son Samuel: "I just couldn't face going home and telling him that I hadn't finished. He's so proud of me and always shouts 'Daddy's going running' when I leave the house."

Dave, 54, says he will be carrying pictures of his Dad and son to give him a boost whilst running.

He also commented: "I'm running with a great friend, and I know we'll be there for each other for huge support when there's a crisis."

So far Mark and Dave have raised around £22,000 between them. The money has been raised through a number of fundraising events.

West Yorkshire police have also raised £2,000 towards Mark's challenge.

If you would like to sponsor Mark please visit http://www.justgiving.com/Mark-Valente. To sponsor Dave visit http://www.justgiving.com/DavePhillipson

Christmas catwalk raises £1,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research

13/01/2012 11:00:52 +0000

An aspiring fashion designer from Stocksbridge has raised more than £1,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research by holding a Christmas catwalk event at Wortley Hall, Sheffield.

Terri Bowden, who completed an FdA in Costume Construction at Cleveland College of Art and Design last summer, organised the 'Mad Hatters' themed event to showcase her vintage and hand-made clothing and raise money for charity.

The 20-year-old, who works as a waitress at the country mansion, said: "I became interested in designing clothes after taking part in a sewing course. I make a lot of my own things, including hats and hand-decorated clothes which I sell to my friends. I'm a creative person and I like making my ideas a reality. I love seeing people wearing my clothes and enjoying them.

"I wanted to hold an event to let people know what I'm doing and to raise money for a local charity at the same time. I've had cancer in my family so Yorkshire Cancer Research seemed like the ideal charity to choose."

About 140 people turned up to the show, which included a hot turkey, cranberry and stuffing sandwich and the chance to buy Terri's creations afterwards.

Those who attended also had the opportunity to browse Christmas stalls, enjoy a performance by 14-year-old singer Megan Adamson and take part in a raffle and auction.

Wortley Hall provided the room and food for free so that as much money as possible could go to Terri's chosen charity.

She added: "The event was amazing. I'd like to thank the models who made the night a success, photographer Peter Goldstraw who captured the event, Wortley Hall and everyone who came along and supported myself and Yorkshire Cancer Research."

Huddersfield restaurant owner who lost brother to cancer to hold fundraising dinner

12/01/2012 14:09:28 +0000

A Huddersfield restaurant owner who lost his brother to cancer will hold a special dinner to raise money for research into the disease.

Abdul Hafiz is inviting guests to Saim's Restaurant, Bradford Road, on 26 January for an evening of contemporary Halal Punjabi cuisine, live music and a raffle prize draw in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Mr Hafiz's brother, Abdul Latif, passed away four years ago at the age of 57 following a battle with prostate cancer.

Yorkshire Cancer Research, which funds world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region, is responsible for funding pioneering research into prostate cancer at the University of York's YCR Cancer Research Unit, led by Professor Norman Maitland.

Mr Hafiz, who also works as a pharmacist at Bradford Road Pharmacy, said: "A few years ago, my brother lost his battle with cancer, but thanks to the work of Yorkshire Cancer Research doctors were able to prolong his life. We would like to give something back to this wonderful charity by hosting this fundraising dinner and raising awareness of the prevalence of cancer.

"Yorkshire has lower survival rates from cancer than the national average. This is partly due to the fact that the government and other cancer research charities focus their funding efforts in other regions. I see patients with cancer at the pharmacy every day - it"s something that can affect any one of us at any time."

Bradford Road Pharmacy has donated fragrances for the raffle and those who attend will be able to make donations to the charity during the evening, which will begin at 7pm.

Tickets for the evening, which includes a four-course meal, are £15. To book a table for the fundraising dinner please visit http://saimsrestaurant.co.uk/fundraising-dinner/ or contact the restaurant on 01484 539444.

Yorkshire Cancer Research offers January sale on Run for All events

05/01/2012 10:36:12 +0000

We're offering aspiring runners the chance to kick-start their way into a healthy new year with a discount entry to all three Jane Tomlinson Run for All events.

Participants can now buy a season ticket for the 10k runs in Leeds, York and Hull for just £40 throughout the month of January - a saving of £26.

The trio of runs will begin on 3 June 2012 with an exciting course around Hull, when thousands of participants will travel past The Deep, through the Marina and cross the finish line at Queen's Gate.

The 'original' run in Leeds city centre is set to take place for the sixth time on 8 July 2012, with almost 50,000 people expected to take part from across the county.

And to end the summer on 5 August 2012, the city of York will play host to a picturesque 10k run, with a route including the famous York Minster and the beautiful River Ouse.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is an official charity partner for the Leeds event and last year 527 people took part on behalf of the charity. Runners will have the chance to meet other supporters, as well as charity staff and volunteers, in the charity marquee at the finish line.

Emma Young, Head of Events at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "We're really excited to be involved in the Run for All events and we're delighted to be able to offer this incredible discount. All three events have a brilliant atmosphere with great support from local people, so come along and help people in Yorkshire beat cancer."

To sign up for the season ticket, complete our online entry form or call 01423 877210 to register over the phone. All participants will receive a fundraising pack including T-shirt, sponsor forms and fundraising guide.

Dancing couple celebrate seven years raising money for charity

19/12/2011 12:21:46 +0000

A couple from Moor Monkton, York, are celebrating seven years of dancing the night away to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research this Christmas.

Jack and Sylvia Parkes have been holding sequence, old-time and ballroom dances at Bishop Monkton village hall since 2004, raising nearly £2,500 for the regional charity.

The pair, aged 75 and 74, were initially inspired to start dancing by Jack's large collection of CDs, and they soon realised it was a great way to stay healthy and meet new people.

Sylvia explained: "Jack had always wanted to hold dances. We grew up in the age when couples danced together, but we didn't do it for many years after we had children.

"We really enjoy it and it keeps us so fit. I don't think people realise how many men and women in our age group go dancing. There are people still doing it at 90! We're very surprised when we see some of them get up dance - it's got to be doing us good."

When Sylvia was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, the dances became even more important to her as a way of leaving her troubles behind.

Although Sylvia overcame her experience with the disease, sadly her niece Debbie Jones died aged 47 after suffering from breast cancer in 2010. Sylvia had also lost her sister, Shirley Hunter, to ovarian cancer in 2000.

Sylvia continued: "The specialist told me to keep dancing; it's the best thing for you. It makes you forget about everything and helps you to get better."

About 80 people now attend the dances, which take place twice a month with the help of Jack and Sylvia's friends Ray and Morag Mott. The sessions cost £3 if recorded music is played and £4-£5 with live music. A raffle is held to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research, and either a buffet is provided or dancers enjoy a sit-down supper together.

Sylvia added: "We'll keep going as long as we can keep going, but we'd really like to attract younger ones to help the tradition continue into the future."

If you are interested in attending the dances, you can contact Jack and Sylvia on 01904 737923.

Normanton employees complete coast-to-coast bike ride for Yorkshire Cancer Research

06/12/2011 13:41:02 +0000

Members of staff from a Normanton vehicle hire company raised an incredible £7,203 for Yorkshire Cancer Research by completing a gruelling bike ride across the country.

Eleven employees from Access Hire Nationwide, including the company's Managing Director John Wood, signed up for the 140-mile coast-to-coast challenge from Workington, Cumbria, to Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, which took the group three days to complete earlier this year.

The company offered to pay for all transport and hotels so that every penny raised in sponsorship will go towards funding world-class cancer research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

John Battersby, Finance Director at Access Hire Nationwide and organiser of the ride, said: "We wanted to organise something that would be good fun and would help us raise money for charity at the same time.

"Some of us have been affected by cancer so we chose to raise money for a cancer research charity, and with Yorkshire Cancer Research being a local charity too we decided to help them. Our aim was to raise as much money as we can.

"We all enjoyed it immensely and were surprised by the kind words and generosity of people who donated along the route."

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising for Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "I would like to thank the employees of Access Hire Nationwide for raising such an incredible amount of money and completing such a huge challenge for us. Congratulations!"

Yorkshire Cancer Research supports 200 internationally-recognised scientists and clinicians across Yorkshire and is committed to slashing current statistics that show 259 people die from cancer in the county each year.

Christmas coffee morning raises £1,785 for Yorkshire Cancer Research

01/12/2011 15:15:22 +0000

A Christmas Coffee Morning held at Bolton Abbey village hall raised £1,785 for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

About 250 people enjoyed hot drinks and handmade biscuits as they browsed stalls selling jewellery, cakes, art work, Christmas cards and ladies accessories.

Proceeds from the annual event, organised by Yorkshire Cancer Research's Ilkley Committee, will go towards the charity's world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

The voluntary committee has been raising money for the charity for 33 years and has raised £367,666.40 during that time.

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising for Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "The Ilkley Christmas Coffee Morning always reminds me that Christmas is just around the corner. The stands offer a variety of lovely gifts and the cake stall is amazing with dozens and dozens of beautiful homemade fayre. It is extremely busy and attended by many loyal supporters. I would like to thank the committee for their hard work, and everyone who attended the event."

Grassington jumble sale raises thousands for Yorkshire Cancer Research

01/12/2011 14:34:43 +0000

A jumble sale held at Grassington Town Hall earlier this month raised a record-breaking £3,606 for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Organiser Julie Fairbank, from Hebden, has been holding the event since December 2004, and over the years the jumble sale has raised an incredible £22,222 for the charity's world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

Julie said: "This year's jumble sale was another fantastic day. We are always very blessed with people donating jumble and tombola prizes, people volunteering to help on the day and a good team of men with tractors and trailers to ferry goods to and from the town hall.

"People came from far afield to attend - a woman from Ulverston won a lovely basket of fruit on the tombola, two pieces of furniture went down to Surrey and other items went as far afield as Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol."

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising for Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "I would like to thank Julie and all her helpers, as well as those who attended the jumble sale, for raising such a magnificent amount for Yorkshire Cancer Research and giving their time year after year. Without their generous support we would not be able to continue our vital work."

Flower festival held in memory of Halifax fundraiser helps raise £2,000

01/12/2011 14:25:51 +0000

A flower festival held in memory of popular Halifax fundraiser Rita Broadbent helped to raise almost £2,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research earlier this year.

Rita, who sadly passed away at the age of 76 in May 2010, was a member of the Halifax Committee for Yorkshire Cancer Research and would organise the flower festival every two years to raise money for the regional charity.

Rita's friend Geraldine Carter decided to continue the event in her memory following her death. The flower festival took place at Holdsworth House Hotel in June, with the help of Rita's daughter Maxine Garbett.

Geraldine and her husband Brian, who are both members of the Rotary Club of Halifax Calder, had already promised to Rita that they would raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research during Brian's year as President of the Club.

The couple have been touched by cancer themselves, with Brian being diagnosed with penile cancer three years ago and Geraldine overcoming eye cancer in 1997.

Geraldine said: "Brian had told Rita that he would raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research when he became President of the Rotary Club, and she thought it was brilliant.

"After she passed away, we decided we would still go ahead, and it seemed a fitting tribute to organise the flower festival, partly in her memory, to raise money for the charity. Rita had been a hard working fundraiser for such a long time."

A cheque for the money raised during the year was presented to John Richards, Trustee of Yorkshire Cancer Research, at a meeting of the Rotary Club on Monday (November 28).

Mr Richards also gave a talk about the charity, which funds world class research, treatment and diagnosis throughout the region. Currently Yorkshire has one of the worst survival rates in the UK, and the charity plans to fund projects to find out why, and what can be done, in coming years.

Geraldine added: "Both of us have suffered from cancer so we were very pleased to raise money for research into the disease. I know there's still a chance that my cancer could come back and I still go to see an oncologist every year. It's always there - you can never put it behind you."

Handmade clangers raise £2,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research

01/12/2011 08:58:41 +0000

Handmade clangers helped Yorkshire Cancer Research to raise nearly £2,000 at last weekend's Twisted Thread Knitting and Stitching Show.

In the weeks running up to the four-day event, which attracts thousands of people to Harrogate International Centre every year, the Harrogate-based charity asked knitting and stitching enthusiasts to knit or sew their own version of their loveable pink mascots - popular 1970s TV characters The Clangers!

Nearly 50 entries were submitted and the competition prize for the 'Best Dressed' Clanger went to Wendy Barrington from Knaresborough, who was presented with a Hamper of Yorkshire Fayre from Farrah's for her mini version of Captain Jack Sparrow.

All the entries - which included a Father Christmas, scientist and Elvis himself - were displayed at the exhibition and were available to purchase along with the charity's official Clanger key-rings and badges, Christmas cards and calendars.

Money raised during the show, which totalled £1,833.79, will go towards funding world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "It was an honour to be involved in such a popular event that showcases such a huge range of textile crafts.

"We were absolutely delighted with the quality of the entries we received. Lots of hard work and imagination went into creating each and every Clanger and we looked forward to meeting them as they arrived in the post!

"I would like to thank everybody who took the time to enter our competition and all those who were generous enough to give our Clangers a good home."

PhD student drops in to thank local school for their fundraising efforts

30/11/2011 10:24:35 +0000

Biochemistry graduate and PhD student Emma Hesketh dropped into a local primary school to talk about the research she's carrying out thanks to their donation to Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Belmont Grosvenor School in Birstwith, near Harrogate, raised £17,300 at their summer Enchanted Ball and chose to divide the money between the school's PTA and Yorkshire Cancer Research - with a cheque for £8,660 handed over to the cancer charity.

That cash has enabled Emma to start her three-year PhD course at the University of York where she is one of five promising young science students to benefit from Yorkshire Cancer Research's PhD Studentship scheme. The scheme supports postgraduates pursuing a career in cancer research - an area of study which is currently underfunded, forcing young talent to follow alternative career paths.

During her three-year course, Emma will look at the way genes are copied before cells divide to produce new cells, so that treatments can be developed to block this process from happening in cancer cells. She says: "I've loved science from the moment I stepped foot in the lab. Following my degree in biochemistry I decided I wanted to do something beneficial with everything I had learned.

"Many people suffer from cancer and I really wanted to make a difference. The research we are already doing is so interesting and we are so close to making breakthroughs - I really wanted to get more involved and help push it that little bit further," she added. "I think Belmont Grosvenor School has done a fantastic job in raising so much money and I'm very happy to be able to talk to the children about my research.

"I think it's really important to make children aware of science and get them excited about the opportunities they could have in the future."

Julia King, former Chair of the PTA, said: "The PTA committee was delighted to support such a worthwhile charity this year.

"Everyone worked tirelessly to raise this magnificent sum. We are thrilled to be able to support Emma in her studies to understand more about cancer, and we hope that her visit will have inspired a few budding scientists.

"Our sincere thanks are extended to everyone who contributed to the success of the Belmont Grosvenor Enchanted Ball."

Hobbs fashion night boosts funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research

16/11/2011 09:35:18 +0000

Last week the Harrogate Committee of Yorkshire Cancer Research held a fashion show at the popular clothes shop Hobbs, based in the town centre.

Guests were invited to enjoy an evening of champagne and nibbles and committee members took to the floor to model the stores latest designs.

The evening was a great success and raised £580 for Yorkshire Cancer Research. Guests also had the opportunity to take part in a raffle with the chance to win £200 worth of Hobbs vouchers.

Jane Thompson, guest at the event, spoke about the evening: "It was a fantastic night for a fantastic cause, I really enjoyed it, the evening had a lovely relaxed atmosphere and was very well organised."

Rachel Castle, committee member explained: "Yorkshire Cancer Research is the largest regional medical research charity and our last accounts noted a spend of £5M on research.

"The Harrogate Committee has been formed to not only raise vital funds but also awareness and our profile in the area."

See more photos from the night in our Facebook album or if you'd like to get involved in future events like this, find out more about your local committee.

Help Harrogate sparkle with our Symphony of Lights scheme

11/11/2011 14:47:20 +0000

Yorkshire Cancer Research is once again giving members of the public the chance to contribute to Harrogate's winter wonderland of colourful lights.

Our Symphony of Lights scheme, held in conjunction with Harrogate Borough Council, offers the opportunity to buy tree lights on The Stray in memory or celebration of a loved one, family member or special event.

The lights, which will be lit for 50 years and maintained by the council, range from £10 for a single light, £100 for a garland of lights and £1,500 for a whole tree of lights.

The popular lighting display is currently on show five months of the year from October to March, and last year the charity raised £18,000 from the initiative.

Those who bought lights last year were invited to a special celebration held at Trinity Methodist Church, Trinity Road, on Thursday, November 3, which was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Harrogate Councillor Les Ellington and his wife Christine.

Organist Mr David Wilberforce played light music in the church while guests enjoyed the chance to meet each other and light a candle in memory or celebration of their friends and family.

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "Once again Harrogate is sparkling with fairy lights! Thanks to Yorkshire Cancer research and those who bought lights last year, there are 10 more lit trees this year and we hope to expand on that number.

"As well as contributing to Harrogate's beautiful winter lights, the scheme also raises money for our world-class cancer research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout Yorkshire."

Visit our Symphony of Lights page for more information.

Harrogate's Stray bonfire raises thousands of pounds for Yorkshire Cancer Research

10/11/2011 11:20:23 +0000

An incredible £11,264.70 was raised for our world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects at Harrogate's Stray bonfire last weekend.

The event, organised by Harrogate and District Round Table and sponsored by Engage Mutual Assurance and Harrogate Borough Council, included a spectacular fireworks display, huge bonfire and food and drink provided by Harrogate and Nidderdale District Scouts.

More than 10,000 people from across the region turned up to enjoy the event's 40th anniversary celebrations and they donated a record-breaking amount of money to a collection held for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "On behalf of Yorkshire Cancer Research I would like to thank the Harrogate and District Round Table for choosing our charity to benefit from the magnificent collection taken at the Stray bonfire on Saturday evening.

"The evening was fantastic with more than 70 volunteers collecting in their illuminated buckets amongst a huge crowd of over 10,000 people. A staggering amount was raised and I would like to thank, in addition, all those who collected and the general public for their most generous donations."

Paul Horner, Chairman of Community Services for the Harrogate Round Table, added: "I am truly humbled. This year's collection certainly smashed all recent records and by some margin - almost doubling the money raised at the 2010 event. We would like to thank everyone who attended the bonfire and gave so generously - it was an evening truly befitting of our 40th anniversary."

Pictures by Christopher Morris.

Charity fashion show raises record amount for Yorkshire Cancer Research

07/11/2011 11:07:12 +0000

An annual fashion show held by leading designer fashion boutique Robinsons of Bawtry has raised a record-breaking amount of money to aid important cancer research in Yorkshire.

The fashion show raised a staggering £16,866.00, taking the grand total raised for Yorkshire Cancer Research over a 19 year period to £227,595.24.

"We are so pleased that we have received huge support from all our customers to make our yearly contribution to this fantastic charity. Special thanks must go to the team at the China Rose who, once again, played a huge part in making the event a consummate success," said Russell Jones proprietor Robinsons Bawtry. "It was a superb way to celebrate our 25th year in business and also provide funding to PhD student James Hackland to allow him to continue his studies at the University of Sheffield, into the development and treatment of cancer in children and young people."

The event saw a glittering catwalk show of some of Robinsons finest labels and guests enjoyed a fine Chinese banquet, charity auction and entertainment from soul and motown band 'The Sally Army' headed up by twice X Factor boot camp finalist, Sally Dawson.

It is the first year that Yorkshire Cancer Research was able to specify exactly where the money raised from the event would be invested.

"Once again an enormous thank you must go to Russell and his wife Wendy, as well as everyone who has helped to organise this brilliant event," commented Sally Crerar head of community fundraising at Yorkshire Cancer Research. "The money raised by them this year will help James during his three year project to progress and consolidate the work that our research scientists do to understand the cause, diagnosis and treatment of cancer."

The fashion show, which was launched by previous Robinsons owner, Tony Robinson, in memory of his first wife, has become a glittering social event.

Robinsons is located at 2 South Parade, Bawtry, Doncaster, DN10 6JH and the team can be contacted on 01302 711477 or by visiting www.robinsonsofbawtry.com where you can also shop online.

Masham millers cycle miles to raise £3,500 for Yorkshire Cancer Research

01/11/2011 08:52:00 +0000

A group of 10 employees from I'Anson Brothers Ltd, Masham, have cycled the 176 mile route of the Way of the Roses to raise funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

The three-day challenge was set when Ged Hall, Operations Manager at I'Anson Brothers, a 110 year old family business based in Masham which manufactures animal feeds for farm animals, pets and horses, invited employees to come up with ideas for a fundraising effort.

They decided to raise money for something that had touched many of their families - cancer.

Starting on the west coast at Morecambe the Way of the Roses route took the cyclists through a scenic but hilly course to the first night's stop at Pateley Bridge. After a good night's rest, the group then made their way through the Studley Royal estate to York, stopping for the night at Pocklington. The final day saw the millers finishing on the sea front at Bridlington.

Mr Hall said: "It was a great three days experience for those that took part and we raised £3,500 for Yorkshire Cancer Research. We're now keen to come up with the next challenge.

"We would especially like to thank Atkinsons coaches of Kirkby Malzeard for delivering us and our bikes to the start and picking us up from the finish, free of charge, as we wouldn't have raised so much money for this important cause without the sponsorship."

Yorkshire Cancer Research funds world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

For more information on the charity, visit www.yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk or call 01423 501269.

Morley Football Club donate last of competition funds to Yorkshire Cancer Research

27/10/2011 11:23:52 +0000

A Yorkshire football club has decided to donate leftover funds from an old tournament to Yorkshire Cancer Research.

For many years Morley Football Club arranged football competitions, with around 30 teams competing from pubs and clubs across the area. But eight years ago organisers decided to end the tournament when numbers dwindled and they could no longer afford to run the events.

Ending the competition left organisers with £400 in the bank, which they recently decided to donate to the Harrogate-based charity, which funds world-class treatment, diagnosis and research projects throughout the region.

Competition organiser Ray Myers, 71, said: "When we started there were 30 teams, but over the years that number dropped to 11 due to pubs and clubs shutting, and we felt it wasn't financially worthwhile to keep running the competition.

"The wife of one of our club members has got cancer, and my son in law died recently aged 42 of cancer, so it seemed logical to donate to a cancer charity.

"As Yorkshire Cancer Research are based in Yorkshire and fund research within the region they seemed like the ideal charity."

Take a Yuletude Stride to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research

20/10/2011 15:11:18 +0000

This year Yorkshire Cancer Research is organising a Yuletide Stride, which will hopefully see hundreds of Santa's and reindeers taking to the streets of Hull to raise money for the Yorkshire based charity.

Runners, joggers and walkers are invited to take part on the 27th November 2011 at 10am.

The circular 5km route will start at St Stephen's Shopping Centre in Hull and go up to and around the KC Stadium. The entry fee of £10 includes either a Santa suit or reindeer's antlers and t-shirt.

This really is a fun day for all the family, as all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part. Mince pies will be served as Santa and his reindeers cross the finishing line and medals will be given to those completing the Yuletide Stride.

This is the first time Yorkshire Cancer Research has held an event of this kind, Emma Young, Head of Events, at Yorkshire Cancer Research said: "We're really excited about the Yuletide Stride as it's the first Christmas run we've ever organised, and we're really pleased that it is going to be held in Hull where we have a great supporter base of local people. She added: "I would like to thank St Stephen's Shopping Centre for its amazing support in helping us organise this fun event".

Yorkshire Cancer Research funds world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

If you would like to join in the fun or would like more information please contact the events team on 01423 877210 or visit the website www.yuletidestride.com.

Ilkley airline man runs the New York marathon to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research

09/10/2011 15:13:00 +0000

Andrew Merrick, from Ilkley, will be taking a vacation from his day job as finance director of locally based leisure airline Jet2.com, and taking to the streets of New York in a bid to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

The New York City Marathon which takes place on Sunday 6th November 2011 is one of the world's great road races with sensational views of the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings.

Andrew has chosen to raise money for the Harrogate based charity because both his parents sadly died of cancer.

Andrew said: "I started running again in October 2008 when my father died of cancer. I promised him I would stay fit. Shortly afterwards my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and she died earlier this year. So now I am running for both of them."

The 50 year old is no stranger to marathons, having previously completed the London Marathon - but with its spectacular bridges and the hills in Central Park, the New York route is considered even tougher than the London event.

Andrew added: "After a few glasses of wine during a dinner just before Christmas 2000, I found myself committing to run the London marathon in April 2001 just before my 40th birthday. Since October 2008, running has become an important part of my life, with the support of some good friends from the Ilkley Harriers. So to celebrate my 50th, I will be running the New York Marathon and raising money for Yorkshire Cancer Research."

Andrew is funding his own trip, so all contributions will go towards supporting further research into cancer. To date Andrew has raised over £1600, to sponsor him please visit http://www.justgiving.com/andrew-merrick.

Yorkshire Cancer Research funds world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the region.

BBC Look North's Harry Gration Raises Awareness of Prostate Cancer

27/06/2011 10:59:18 +0000

BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration joined hundreds of runners in York's Rowntree Park to help raise awareness of prostate cancer and impact it has on men's lives.

The R U Taking The P2 event on Sunday saw nearly 300 men from across Yorkshire run, walk and in some cases sing their way around a 5km course in York city centre to raise vital funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research who fund the UK's leading expert on prostate cancer stem cell research, Professor Norman Maitland, at the University of York.

Professor Maitland, took part in the race himself along with a six-strong group of singers from York Opera who belted out tunes from Ruddigore and Tadcaster butcher Nick Devine who ran the course whilst precariously balancing a tray of meat pies.

Co-organiser Brian Hughes, 58, who is also president of York Knavesmire Harriers, said: "The turn-out was absolutely brilliant for our second event this year and we feel it has really succeeded in its aims and raised tens of thousands of pounds for life-saving prostate cancer research specifically at York.

"Men tend not to talk about cancer as much as women do so we are looking to do what we can to change that with some of those taking part in the run suffering from cancer themselves or having lost loved ones.

"We purposefully decided to hold this year's event on the same day as a woman only 5k at York racecourse because us men really do need to get a lot more united and have specific charity event of our own like this.

"I can't wait to see how many chaps enter next year to help us raise even more money for Yorkshire Cancer Research," he said.

(Picture caption: R U Taking the P2 organiser Brian Hughes with BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration and co race organiser Richard Smith) Photography: Wendy Binns.

Leeds Scientists lead groundbreaking investigation into cervical cancer treatment

16/05/2011 12:41:22 +0000

A PIONEERING investigation into the treatment of cervical cancer will take place at the University of Leeds following a major advancement in the study of the disease.

The project, funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, will focus on using therapeutic drugs to target a specific protein called E5, which is produced by the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Scientists at the university recently became the first people to produce sufficient amounts of the protein, which is capable of transforming cells and initiating cancer, in the laboratory, enabling researchers to study it in detail for the first time.

HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, which is the second most common cancer in women in the developed world and the most common cancer in women in the developing world. The virus is also associated with head and neck cancers and anal and penile cancers, and so affects men as well as women, although not all people infected by the virus will develop cancer.

Since September 2008 there has been a national programme to vaccinate teenage girls against HPV, but the vaccine has no effect on those already infected by the virus and it is believed that a significant decline in cases of cervical cancer will not become apparent until 2040.

The team of scientists in Leeds have already discovered that the E5 protein forms a ring like structure that is able to puncture cell membranes, creating what is known as a 'virus encoded ion channel'.

They hope to target therapeutic agents at that channel to try and block the pore, in a similar fashion to the way anti-viral drugs such as Tamiflu are used to treat influenza.

Dr Andrew Macdonald, who is leading the study, said: "We are really excited about this study. Very little is known about this protein because no one has ever really been able to express it in the lab in sufficient quantities to study it, but we have recently learned how to do that.

"There is a major drive in the HPV community to develop therapeutics, hand in hand with the cervical cancer vaccination, but the question has always been 'what do you target?' We have now found a function that we can use to target these drugs.

"We are really grateful that Yorkshire Cancer Research has given us the money to fund this project. It will enable us to create a valuable tool kit which will help us to increase our understanding of the E5 protein."

Research into the E5 protein at Leeds is led by Dr Andrew Macdonald, in collaboration with Professors Mike McPherson, Eric Blair and Dr Nicola Stonehouse in the Faculty of Biological Sciences and Dr Richard Foster in the School of Chemistry.

New bowel cancer evidence supports calls for routine DNA damage repair test

08/03/2011 09:07:09 +0000

Bowel cancer patients whose tumours contain defects in specific DNA repair systems are much less likely to experience tumour recurrence post surgery, published results from a major clinical study have demonstrated. Scientists who collaborated on the 10 year QUASAR randomised control trial, one of the largest UK clinical trials to test the benefits of chemotherapy in post-surgery bowel cancer patients, have confirmed that colon tumors containing defects in their DNA mismatch repair system are 50 percent less likely to recur following surgery compared to tumours where DNA mismatch repair is normal.

Furthermore, the study suggests that patients with tumors showing mutation of the KRAS gene are more likely to re-grow compared to tumours containing a normal KRAS gene irrespective of disease stage or whether chemotherapy is administered.

These results, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, strongly support the introduction of DNA mismatch repair testing into routine clinical practice within the NHS. The results also highlight the possible role of KRAS mutation testing to guide use of adjuvant chemotherapy in bowel cancer patients.

Stored tumour tissue from 1913 patients enrolled in QUASAR, a clinical trial in which participants were randomised between fluorouracil/folinic acid chemotherapy or observation alone, was used for the study.

Retrospective testing of the QUASAR material was undertaken to specifically investigate the clinical value of testing for defective DNA damage repair and mutations of the BRAF and KRAS genes in order to predict tumour recurrence and sensitivity to chemotherapy in bowel cancer patients.

The study was funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, the UK Medical Research Council and Cancer Research UK while all the scientific work was performed at the University of Leeds by pathologist Dr Gordon Hutchins and PhD student Katie Southward with the analysis carried out at the University of Birmingham.

The study lead, Yorkshire Cancer Research Centenary Professor of Pathology, Phil Quirke, based at the University of Leeds, said the report confirmed the value of these molecular markers in selecting treatment strategies for non-metastatic bowel cancer patients following surgery.

"Biomarkers have radically changed the management of breast cancer with stratification of women by oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and HER-2 status being an integral part of therapeutic decision making," said Prof Quirke.

"Yet despite bowel cancer being almost as common as breast cancer with one million new cases occurring worldwide each year, evidence to support the routine testing of post-surgery non-metastatic bowel cancer patients with putative biomarkers, such as those for defective mismatch repair, remains elusive.

"There is still uncertainty, for example, whether the modest benefits of chemotherapy in locally advanced colorectal cancer where the tumour has not spread to the lymph nodes, (stage II disease), are sufficient to justify the toxicity, cost and inconvenience of the treatment. In this situation the selection of patients who are most likely to benefit from therapy remains problematic.

"Currently we assess the probability that a patient's tumour will recur through thorough and detailed, but often subjective, pathological assessment. The supplementation of this approach with objective, quality assured biomarkers in patients with bowel cancer could accurately predict the likelihood of recurrence and allow us to aggressively treat only those patients whose tumours are much more likely to return, sparing a significant proportion of bowel cancer patients needless chemotherapy.

"Many biomarkers have been suggested but none have so far been sufficiently validated for routine clinical application mainly because previous studies have been too small to be convincing and lacked a randomised control group.

"This new data provides unequivocal support for calls to routinely test for defective DNA damage repair in bowel cancer patients, a testing strategy that is an inexpensive and technically simple procedure. The results of this study also support further evaluation of BRAF and KRAS gene mutations to predict tumour recurrence," he said.

Leeds scientists to determine hallmarks of cervical cancer

17/02/2011 11:49:00 +0000

SCIENTISTS at the University of Leeds will analyse tissue taken from women with cervical cancer to determine the hallmarks of cells infected with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), responsible for 90 percent of all UK cases.

The researchers, funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, plan to use new techniques for determining human gene sequences to detect and analyse the hallmarks of HPV-infected cervical cancer cells and tissue in order to gain greater understanding of how the virus contributes to the development of the disease.

Although it has been known for some time that the virus, passed through human sexual contact, is a major cause of cervical cancer, the Leeds scientists are keen to identify the specific characteristics of HPV-infected cancer cells.

They plan to identify potential cell and virus targets in these cancer cells that they can then use to develop new drug compounds to later test in human clinical trials.

Professor in Molecular and Cellular Biology Eric Blair, who is leading the research alongside Dr Graham Cook and Consultant Clinical Oncologist Dr Rachel Cooper, said: "It is vitally important we understand the mechanisms by which HPV16 infection leads to cervical cancer development.

"More than 90 percent of cases in the UK are associated with this infection and while there is a successful vaccination programme in place across the UK and the western world many women are not eligible for vaccination and cervical cancer continues to be the most common cancer diagnosed in women under 35.

"If we can define the hallmarks of cervical cancer cells infected with HPV we can hopefully identify the viral and cell targets that are driving cancer of the cervix.

"We can then start the long process of developing therapies to combat this female cancer which affects around 2,800 women in the UK each year alone according to latest statistics."

Win: All Expenses Paid VIP Trip For Your Relatives or Friends in North America to York

18/01/2011 09:53:05 +0000

YORKSHIRE Cancer Research has been chosen as one of the benefitting charities of an innovative new fundraising venture organised by the Rotary Club of York.

The initiative, held to celebrate the Club's 90th anniversary, offers UK residents the chance to bring their relatives or friends in North America to York on an all expenses paid VIP trip for two.

In return for a donation of $45 (£30) to the charities involved via a specially-dedicated website, entrants in the UK or North America will be given a free ticket to a grand prize draw.

The winner of the draw will be treated to five nights in the fabulous Cedar Court Grand Hotel in the heart of the city, afternoon tea with the Lord Mayor of York in the elegant Mansion House, and the opportunity to enjoy everything the area has to offer on personally escorted tours. The trip will also include two nights in either London or Edinburgh, and the winner can extend their trip further if they wish to visit friends or relatives while in this country.

All proceeds from the venture, which could total £14,000, will be split equally between Yorkshire Cancer Research and international Rotary charity 'End Polio Now'.

Brian Joscelyne, of the Rotary Club, explained: "We wanted to do something different for our anniversary and after talking to people in the States we realised that York is a pretty popular destination on the tourist circuit, so it all went from there.

"The fundraiser is primarily aimed at people who live in North America, but people in the UK can also enter and nominate the name of a friend or relative who they would like to visit them. The idea is quite novel - I don't think any other Rotary club has done this before."

Last year the Rotary Club of York raised £70,000 for various charities through its annual "Dragon Boat Challenge" in July, one of many fundraising events it undertakes each year. The new internet fundraiser will be the first time the club has chosen to support Yorkshire Cancer Research, which helps local people beat cancer by supporting world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects throughout the county.

Brian continued: "We chose to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research not only because it's a very good cause, but also because it was important to us that we supported a charity that could be recognised the world over. We hope that, as well as raising money for our two chosen charities, the initiative will also promote York as a fantastic place to visit."

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: "We are constantly amazed by the new and novel ways our supporters find to raise money for us, and the Rotary Club of York's 90th anniversary fundraiser is one of the most unique ideas we have seen. We are very grateful to be chosen as one of the benefitting charities and would like to thank everyone involved."

For more details on the fundraiser and how you can enter, please visit www.york90.com.

Yorkshire Cancer Research Professor Joins Team of Stem Cell Experts to Beat Cancer

14/01/2011 09:24:19 +0000

Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and its commercial arm Cancer Research Technology (CRT), have invited an eminent Yorkshire Cancer Research (YCR) professor to join their innovative new stem cell consortium.

The national charity has hand-picked four world class research groups to collaborate on an initial two-year research project to unravel the role of cancer stem cells in the development, growth and spread of tumours in breast, prostate and head and neck cancers.

The research groups* are being led by: Professor Fiona Watt, Cancer Research UK's Cambridge Research Institute; Dr Robert Clarke, The University of Manchester and Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, Professor Alan Clarke, Cardiff University and Yorkshire Cancer Research's Professor Norman Maitland, Director of the YCR Research Unit at the University of York.

It was previously thought that all the cells within a tumour are the same, but it is now known a small number of slow-growing cells do not respond to standard treatments. These cancer stem cells are thought to be a cause of resistance to common therapies and the spread of tumour cells to other parts of the body.

Scientists do not yet know how cancer stem cells can be identified and killed. The Cancer Stem Cell Consortium will develop tests and models to refine a common set of known proteins - or biomarkers - present on cancer stem cells across three different tumour types for future drug discovery programmes. The team will also identify new biomarkers as potential targets for the development of new cancer drugs.

Professor Norman Maitland, Director of the Yorkshire Cancer Research Unit at the University of York said: "In York we have developed the means to obtain stem cells from prostate cancers, now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, and the properties of these do indeed suggest that they form this treatment resistant core.

"We now want to explore the molecular properties that allow the cancer stem cells to survive and resist treatment, using several different strategies and we hope that the work generated by our experts together with other world class researchers will increase the information available to scientists in this important area. By doing so we hope to develop new generation drugs, perhaps even patient-specific drugs, to target cancer stem cells. Since cancer stem cells are designed for long-term survival, we aim to dissect these survival mechanisms in order to block them, thus targeting the root of the cancer."

Initially the project will receive £500,000 from Cancer Research UK for two years. It is hoped each research team will attract an industry partner to bring in additional skills know-how and more funding for longer term research. In return industry partners will benefit through access to the consortium's latest discoveries and intellectual property and share Cancer Research UK's expertise in translating scientific discoveries into new cancer treatments.

Once the early development phase is complete, the industrial partner can choose to develop any joint discoveries into compounds with potential to be taken into early clinical trials.

Dr Phil L'Huillier, Cancer Research Technology's business development director, said: "We've selected the world's leading experts in cancer stem cell research to push the frontiers of knowledge in this important field.

"Targeting cancer stem cells is an important strategy in the fight against cancer. By bringing together industry partners and using our commercial expertise alongside the critical mass of the best brains in science we hope to identify important new leads for the development of new therapies to increase survival from a range of cancers."

Any profits from the success of the projects will be shared between the charity and the research partners involved, with Cancer Research UK re-investing any proceeds in its future research work. The business relationships will be managed by CRT, which has more than 20 years experience in licensing patents and developing opportunities for new cancer drugs and diagnostics, working closely with licensees and the pharmaceutical industry.

This is the second of CRT's consortia, the first called Senectus Therapeutics Ltd** formed in 2008 to further research into the triggers of cellular senescence - cell aging - a process by which cells irreversibly halt their cell cycle of growth and division.

Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK's chief executive, said: "Cancer stem cells represent an exciting new frontier in our efforts to beat cancer. We urgently need to find new and effective ways to target these cells. This early research will pave the way for our scientists to develop more treatments and help more people survive a diagnosis of cancer - especially people who have aggressive cancers or for whom conventional treatments do not prevent the cancer returning. "We're investing in this exciting collaboration made up of world-leading scientists to combine our research expertise with support from industry partners to crack the codes behind the causes and development of cancer.

Over 300 Guaranteed Places Now Available in the 2011 Bupa Great North Run.

05/01/2011 11:34:00 +0000

YORKSHIRE Cancer Research (YCR) has more than 300 guaranteed places now available in the 2011 Bupa Great North Run.

The sought after places in the iconic half marathon event on September 18 are likely to fill quickly following record interest last year from competitors across Yorkshire keen to run the North East route on behalf of a regional cancer charity.

Yorkshire Cancer Research's Head of Events Emma Young said: "Last year 54,000 runners took part in the 30th anniversary event and out of that total an impressive 465 took part on behalf of YCR.

"They raised a fantastic £113,362 which is now funding world-class cancer research, diagnosis and treatment at our region's five universities and associated teaching hospitals, helping local people to beat cancer.

"This year, we would like to see around 500 participants take part in aid of us so in addition to offering guaranteed places we are appealing to as many people as possible to secure their own place through the ballot system and choose to run for us.

"We are Yorkshire's cancer charity and virtually all money raised - 83 pence in every pound - is spent purely on world-leading cancer research in Yorkshire.

"There must be hundreds of people out there who have pledged to get fit as part of their New Year resolution so we would be delighted if we could help them do just that whilst raising valuable funds."

Launched in 1981, the Bupa Great North Run is the premier running event in the Great Run series and is now firmly established as the world's most popular half-marathon.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is proud to have been offering places in it for more than 20 years and over that time millions of pounds have been raised to fund cancer research projects which have led to some of the world's leading medical advances including the early discovery of breast cancer drug Tamoxifen.

Apply for a place in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research online or call the fundraising team on 01423 877210 to register over the phone.

All participants will receive a special fundraising pack which includes a Yorkshire Cancer Research T-shirt and tips on training. Minimum age for entries is 18

Fundraising committee's 'non-coffee morning' initiative raises more than £2,000

07/12/2010 10:04:50 +0000

The Leeds Jewish Committee for Yorkshire Cancer Research has raised more than £2,000 - by not holding a coffee morning!

The committee decided a few years ago that instead of inviting people to attend an event, they would send out cards and ask for donations - and this year they have been overwhelmed by the community's generosity.

Mrs Rosalind Peters, Chairman of the committee, explained: "Sometimes people just don't want to get dressed up and go out. So instead of asking them to leave their homes, we decided to send out greeting cards along with a poem and a small gift.

"In the past we have sent out sachets of coffee, but this year someone suggested we send out packets of seeds. We also include a Gift Aid envelope so that people can make a donation and it can raise a lot of money. We try and post as many envelopes as we can ourselves."

The Leeds Jewish Committee annually raises in the region of £11,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research, which helps local people beat cancer by supporting world-class research, treatment and diagnosis projects.

A man's hands can provide a clue to his risk of prostate cancer

01/12/2010 16:01:23 +0000

Men whose index fingers are longer than their ring fingers are significantly less likely to develop the disease, a study has found.

The reason is thought to be hormonal influences in the womb.

Less exposure to the sex hormone testosterone results in a longer index finger and may also protect against prostate cancer later in life.

Researchers made the discovery after comparing 1,500 prostate cancer patients and around 3,000 healthy men.

Participants were shown a series of pictures of different finger length patterns and asked to identify the one most similar to their own right hand.

More than half the men in the study had a shorter index than ring finger.

They developed prostate cancer at about the same rate as the 19% of men whose fingers were the same length.

But the risk for those whose index fingers were longer than their ring fingers was reduced by 33%.

The pattern was even more pronounced in men aged 60. They were 87% less likely to fall into the group affected by prostate cancer if they had long index fingers.

Professor Ros Eeles, from the Institute of Cancer Research in Sutton, Surrey, said: "Our results show that relative finger length could be used as a simple test for prostate cancer risk, particularly in men aged under 60.

"This exciting finding means that finger pattern could potentially be used to select at-risk men for ongoing screening, perhaps in combination with other factors such as family history or genetic testing."

But Director of the Yorkshire Cancer Research Unit at the University of York, Professor Norman Maitland warned the research only indicated an increased risk of developing the disease. He said: "We know that about 10% of prostate cancers are in men who have a family history or predisposition to develop cancer. This paper tells us that some of the increased risk may not be inherited from a parent but is a result of conditions in the womb. Just like a good folate balance is important for the health of a foetus, so a correct hormonal balance is also important.

"Before everyone starts measuring their fingers, or even looking for hairs on the palm of their hand however, we should recognise that the observed difference in finger length only confers an increased risk and is not a sentence of prostate cancer. It can also vary between different populations."

YCR Moves Into Clinical Research

02/11/2010 14:04:32 +0000

Yorkshire Cancer Research has started funding patient-led clinical research in an effort to give the region's cancer sufferers direct access to innovative new treatments.

Until now, the 85-year-old charity, headquartered in Harrogate, has ploughed the majority of its £6m a year income into funding important lab-based cancer research at Yorkshire's five universities and their associated teaching hospitals benefitting scientific knowledge and understanding worldwide.

But the charity's recent move into later stage clinical research - directly involving cancer patients - will allow it to invest in science that is even closer to bringing new cancer treatments to market.

Chief Executive Mark Stevens, who is looking to double Yorkshire Cancer Research's income by 2020, said: "By supporting clinical research and trials involving cancer patients we are building on the outstanding lab science we already fund to ensure real improvements to current clinical and surgical practice.

"Developing new drugs and treatments to beat cancer takes many years and requires millions of pounds of investment but if we can fund the clinical research that helps bring an effective cancer treatment to market then we can save thousands of lives down the line and give patients access to innovative new treatments now."

One clinical research project Yorkshire Cancer Research is currently funding is a study into rare genetic variants of two genes involved in DNA repair.

It is believed that rare variants of these two particular genes may increase the risk of developing bladder cancer - the UK's fifth most common cancer.

"The clinical study attached with this project will hopefully allow me to confirm whether these genetic variants are present in patients suffering with this disease," said Dr Mark Teo, who is leading the trial at St James's Hospital in Leeds.

"This information may help us in the future to indentify people at high risk of bladder cancer who would benefit from early intervention to prevent this terrible disease from developing."

Another clinical research project being funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research is being carried out by PhD histopathologist Dr Nicholas West, again at St James's Hospital, Leeds.

Through clinical studies on cancer patients, Dr West is investigating the importance of good quality surgery for patients with low bowel and colonic cancer tumours in an effort to reduce the chances of these tumours returning.

"Unfortunately the clinical improvements seen following the introduction of a training programme for rectal cancer surgery have not been mirrored in low bowel cancer and colonic cancer," said Dr West.

"These Leeds trials, part funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, have helped us investigate further the importance of good quality surgery for these cancers and we will soon be able to introduce surgery improvements internationally potentially saving somewhere between 2000 and 4000 lives per year in the UK and many more worldwide."

Luminous Jellyfish Cells and Early Cancer Diagnosis

02/11/2010 09:04:10 +0000

IT SOUNDS like an idea plucked from the realms of science fiction writing. But in this case, there is nothing fictional about it.

Scientists in Yorkshire have developed a process that uses the luminous cells from jellyfish to diagnose cancers deep within the human body.

The method has been developed at the Yorkshire Cancer Research Laboratory at The University of York and the man who leads the York team, Professor Norman Maitland, believes it will revolutionise the way some cancers are diagnosed.

"Cancers deep within the body are difficult to spot at an early stage, and early diagnosis is critical for the successful treatment of any form of cancer," he said.

"What we have developed is a process which involves inserting proteins derived from luminous jellyfish cells into human cancer cells. Then, when we illuminate the tissue, a special camera detects these proteins as they light up, indicating where the tumours are."

The process is an extension of the work done by American chemist Dr Roger Y Tsien who won a Nobel Prize in 2008 for taking luminous cells from a common jellyfish called the crystal jelly and isolating the green fluorescent protein (GFP).

The GFP is the substance that allows jellyfish to glow in the dark.

"When we heard about Dr Tsien's work, we realised how that advance might be useful in the diagnosis of cancer," said Prof Maitland.

"X-Rays, for example, struggle to penetrate well deeply into tissues and bone, so diagnosing dangerous microscopic bone cancer is difficult. Our process should allow earlier diagnosis to take place."

What the Yorkshire Cancer Research team has done is to use an altered form of the protein so that it shows up as red or blue, rather than its original green. Colour is important for these tests, as most colours in the spectrum are rapidly absorbed, and tumours deep within the body become invisible. You can try this for yourself by shining a torch light through your hand - the only colour which you can see is red.

In the procedure, viruses containing the proteins are targeted to home in on tiny bundles of cancer cells scattered throughout the body (metastases).

Normally this would not be enough to see the minute tumours which are too small to be seen by conventional scanning techniques, but the viruses then start to grow, and while doing so make more of the red fluorescent proteins.

Thousands of copies are made in each cancer cell, a process, which is repeated in the surrounding cells, as the virus infection spreads and then stops.

"When a specially developed camera is switched on, the proteins just flare up and you can see where the cancer cells are." said Prof Maitland, "We call the process 'Virimaging' ".

If the research continues to go according to plan, the method is expected to be ready for clinical trials within five years and could be ready for diagnostic use by clinicians a few years after this. It has to be tested thoroughly, as a failure to detect such small cancers has serious consequences for patients.

However, while the system works in the laboratory, one major hurdle is a shortage of specialised cameras.

Only one company, based in the United States, has so far designed and built a camera system which allows the jellyfish proteins to be seen with the desired resolution deep in the body. The camera costs around half a million pounds and Prof Maitland is currently raising the funds to be able to buy one.

Red fluorescent cells inside an experimental tumour.

YCR Scientists Start Research on Rare Skin Cancer

27/10/2010 15:57:43 +0000

RESEARCHERS at the University of Leeds have taken their first steps towards understanding why a rare skin cancer that is rapidly growing in incidence in Europe and the USA is not recognised by the body's immune system.

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) arises from uncontrolled growth of skin cells and usually develops on sun-exposed areas as a firm, painless, red-coloured bump that grows over several weeks to months.

The condition typically develops in people aged 65 and over and those with weakened immune systems and there are currently around 1500 cases a year with one third of these proving fatal.

During recent research, around 80 percent of MCCs on human skin were shown to contain a virus termed Merkel cell polyomavirus which is believed to be associated with the growth of this cancer.

Now Leeds-based scientists, funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research headquartered in Harrogate, plan to introduce the genetic material of this virus into normal human skin cells to produce skin cells that have features of MCC cancers.

They will use these synthetic MCC cancer cells along with real MCC cells from patient samples to analyse the reactions of human immune cells against them.

The scientists ultimately hope to increase current knowledge about the human body's ability to eliminate MCC cancer cells to help develop a vaccine in the future. Professor Eric Blair, who is leading the project, said: "Since a virus is involved in the development of Merkel cell carcinoma skin cancer it is important to understand how the virus prevents the immune system attacking the MCC tumour.

"We are aiming to develop strategies to prevent or eradicate tumours and improve the prognosis of patients who suffer with this terrible skin disease which is currently extremely poor."

YCR Benefits From Business Tycoon's Award Winning Share Scheme

20/10/2010 12:50:04 +0000

BUSINESS Charity Champion of the Year and city entrepreneur Richard Bernstein has donated 100,000 shares to Yorkshire Cancer Research (YCR) worth more than £12,000.

The Chief Executive of London-based technology investment fund, Eurovestech Plc, made the donation after recognising the contribution YCR makes to funding life-saving cancer research at Yorkshire's five universities and their associated teaching hospitals benefitting patients worldwide.

YCR, headquartered in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, is now one of 90 charities to have benefitted from Eurovestech's charity share donation scheme which has given away 10 million shares since the company was listed on the AiM market in 2000.

YCR's Chief Executive Mark Stevens said the donation was a wonderful surprise and the scheme was a novel way for other listed companies to follow suit and donate to charity.

"We are extremely grateful to Richard Bernstein and his colleagues for giving us shares in Eurovestech which are currently worth around £12,500 and will contribute towards funding one of our quarterly cancer research grants.

"Entrepreneurs like Richard Bernstein should be commended for setting up innovative charitable donation schemes like this.

"Donating shares really is a great way for corporates to contribute to charity rather than giving cash which hits their immediate bottom line."

Mr Bernstein, who was awarded Business Charity Champion and Outstanding Individual at the Third Sector magazine awards in June for the scheme, said he was delighted that a gift of shares in Eurovestech Plc was able to help Yorkshire Cancer Research continue its excellent work.

"If the UK's top 100 companies gave just 0.5 percent of their shares, it would raise £8 billion at a time when charity is more important than ever as deficit reduction gets under way. Make it 0.1%, and the total is still a whopping £1.6 billion," he added.

"In City terms, one-tenth of 1 percent is a rounding error. If you're a shareholder, 0.1% is irrelevant - but it is incredibly relevant to the charity." In a bid to increase the number of companies donating shares to charity, Mr Bernstein has recently visited the Cabinet Office to see the Minister for Civil Society, Nick Hurd, to discuss reforming the tax law.

His aim is to obtain the same tax advantages for a company donating shares as are currently enjoyed by companies donating cash.

Exclusive Shopping Evening At Harrogate Fashion House Raises £600.00

14/10/2010 12:29:37 +0000

An evening of exclusive shopping at Harrogate boutique LK Bennett has raised more than £600 for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

70 past supporters of the regional charity were offered the opportunity to attend a fashion show displaying the store's latest collection.

Guests were also treated to words of wisdom from a fashion advisor and a skin care expert, and each lady who attended received a girly goody bag.

10 per cent of all sales on the night went towards the charity's vital research into cancer, and a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses raised a further £265.

Boutique manager Drita Shala said: "We love working with charities and we chose Yorkshire Cancer Research because it is a local and worthwhile cause. It was a really lovely evening and we're proud to have raised so much."

Sally Crerar, Head of Community Fundraising at Yorkshire Cancer Research, added: "It was a pleasure to work with Drita and her team at LK Bennett. Everyone enjoyed a fun evening. They saved some money on their purchases and were delighted to donate to Yorkshire Cancer Research also!"

Yorkshire Cancer Research Teams Up With The Tigers - Hull City AFC

24/08/2010 14:48:43 +0000

THE country's biggest regional charity, Yorkshire Cancer Research, has teamed up with Hull City AFC for the new football season following a highly successful partnership with the club in 2009/10.

The two Yorkshire-based organisations first joined forces in July 2009 to launch Let's Kick Cancer - a high profile campaign which aimed to raise awareness of cancer and highlight the internationally-recognised medical research currently being funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research (YCR) at the region's five main universities and associated teaching hospitals.

Let's Kick Cancer enabled several major fundraising initiatives to take place at The KC Stadium - the home of the Tigers - in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research including a televised YCR match between Hull City AFC and Manchester United, a YCR Cash 4 Clothes recycling event, big screen text appeals and match bucket collections.

Now bosses from both sides are keen to repeat that success so they can continue exposing the life-saving work of the cancer charity across the whole of the Yorkshire region.

Yorkshire Cancer Research's new Chief Executive Mark Stevens said: "Our ultimate mission is to promote research in Yorkshire into the causes and cures of cancer and inform as many people as possible about the life-changing work that we do and have done for 85 years.

"Teaming up with Hull City AFC again this season helps us to do this as it allows us to raise our profile, stage extra fundraising events and have our YCR logo on all Hull City AFC Stationery and on match programmes for example.

"It's so important cancer sufferers right here in Yorkshire continue to be able to access some of the best cancer treatments and therapies in the world that we are currently funding at our five Yorkshire universities.

"But we need to raise literally millions each year to make this research happen and partnering with high profile clubs like Hull City AFC is an effective way of letting millions of people know what we do every day."

Hull City AFC's Chief Executive Mark Maguire added. "As a professional football club we have a unique responsibility to work with our community and with charities to make a difference to people's lives.

"We are privileged to exist in the world of sport and it is partnerships like this, with a locally based charity, who make a huge impact in a very important area, which should be at the very heart of what we do.

"We are determined to support Yorkshire Cancer Research in a pro active fashion and are proud to be associated with their magnificent efforts for another year."

Yorkshire Businesses: Reduce Your Overheads Through Our New Office Supplies Partnership

21/07/2010 16:02:21 +0000

CALLING all Yorkshire business owners who currently support YCR! We've teamed up with York-based office supplies firm Ben Johnson Office Solutions to offer you a great saving.

For every new account opened, Ben Johnson will donate five percent of your monthly spend back to YCR at the end of each month.

For example, spend £500 with Ben Johnson and they will donate £25 to YCR on your behalf.

As an introductory offer, all YCR corporate supporters who contact Ben Johnson, request a no-obligation quote and mention Yorkshire Cancer Research will also benefit from a £10 donation to the charity on their behalf.

For more information or for a free quote please contact Glen Renton on 01904 698 698 or email glen.renton@benjohnson.co.uk

Harvey Nichols Fashion Show 30th September, Elland Road

15/06/2010 11:56:35 +0000

Harvey Nichols will be presenting their Autumn Winter 2010 VIP fashion show at Leeds United Football Club at Elland Road this year on 30th September as part of Yorkshire Cancer Research's 85th anniversary celebrations. The show will include a champagne reception, dinner and a premium catwalk fashion show. Ticket prices are £50. If you would like to book a table or sponsor the event email Louise@clearsilver.co.uk or call 0113 307 5900.

High Heel A Thon, Leeds, Sunday 26th September

15/06/2010 11:50:39 +0000

This year's High Heel-a-Thon, in association with the Victoria Quarter, will start and finish at the premiere fashion and lifestyle destination. Housed in elegant Grade 11* listed buildings and home to 76 of the world's leading fashion and lifestyle brands such as Louis Vuitton, Paul Smith, Vivienne Westwood, Mulberry, LK Bennett, Agent Provocateur, All Saints and of course Harvey Nichols, the Victoria Quarter is justifiably renowned as The Knightsbridge of the North. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the Victoria Quarter, a milestone being celebrated with Clearsilver's 2010 High Heel-a-Thon in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research.

For more information go to http://www.highheelathon.co.uk/

YCR are delighted to support an evening with Alan Bennett

04/06/2010 11:30:37 +0000

Yorkshire Cancer Research is delighted to be supporting Britain's best-loved observer, Alan Bennett, Author of countless TV, stage and film dramas including- The Madness of George III and The History Boys. In a profile to mark his 75th birthday last year, The Telegraph described him as, "our Mozart of the mundane, our Picasso of the prosaic."

Please click here to purchase a ticket for the event
To give a donation to Yorkshire Cancer Research please click here

Bennett will be sharing the stage with pianist Alessandro Taverna, born in Venice in 1983, is a vibrant young talent who has won numerous awards in national and international competitions. He has performed throughout Europe and America, including Berlin's prestigious Konzerthaus and New York's Steinway Halls. Alessandro has recorded for Radio Classica in Italy, for the Slovenian National Radio Television and for Classic FM Radio in South Africa

A unique way to celebrate your special day

26/02/2009 15:55:30 +0000

Instead of unwanted wedding and anniversary presents why not ask your friends and family to make a donation to charity. Whatever the celebration, a wedding, birthday, christening or anniversary, giving in celebration is a positive way to celebrate a special occasion by asking for a donation in lieu of a present.

Cancer will affect the lives of 1 in 3 people and by giving guests at your celebration the opportunity to make a donation to charity instead of a present you are literally giving the gift of life to someone else. Yorkshire Cancer Research funds research into the cause and cure of cancer by awarding grants to scientists working in universities and teaching hospitals all over Yorkshire.

Linsey Coulthard, Head of Communications for Yorkshire Cancer Research said: "Although we are currently experiencing a recession, investing in research is vital. With over 200 forms of cancer it is essential that we continue to fund research into the cause and cure of cancer. Research save lives and your support is an investment in all our futures."

Yorkshire Cancer Research is an independent charity that relies almost entirely on the kind generosity of it supporters. The charity funds world renowned research investigating the cause and behavioural patterns of a variety of cancers in order to develop more effective treatments for future cancer patients.

To donate please click here