THREE children are helping their parents organise an event to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and two other causes which support cancer patients.

Twelve-year-old Chelsea Bendelow, her six-year-old sister Kirsty and brother Ryan, aged just three, have been helping their mum and dad, Paul and Natalie, with the organisation of a massive raffle and fun event to be held at The Market Inn in St Cleer.

Natalie was devastated when her mum, June Skeldon (65) of Dobwalls, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. She has had an operation and is now receiving intensive chemotherapy.

'To say thank you as a family for all the fantastic help and support my mum and ourselves are receiving during this difficult time, we have decided to keep positive by putting something back through fundraising,' said Natalie.

'Chelsea has designed the flyers advertising the event, and Kirsty has produced prints of a tiger, her favourite animal, for a colouring competition.'

As well as Macmillan Cancer Support, the raffle of more than 70 prizes will also raise funds for the Derriford Oncology Unit, and the Triangle Centre, an outreach for local cancer sufferers and their families based at Liskeard Hospital.

Natalie, who is a dinner lady at St Cleer Primary School, says she is only able to continue to work because of the amazing help from Macmillan Nurses, and she has also praised the kindness of the oncology unit and the wonderful support from Triangle.

'These people are our lifeline,' she said, 'and the fundraising is a focus for us all and is keeping us going.'

The raffle will take place on Friday, October 12, from 7pm, with prizes including Theatre Royal tickets, Banger Racing tickets and spa makeovers. Tickets are available from The Market Inn and family members, or can be bought on the night.