Big-hearted Widnes Market traders have raised £6,244 in just one year for children’s cancer charity Clic Sargent.
The donation was presented to Clic Sargent fundraiser Stefanie Underhill on Friday at the Halton Borough Council venue.
Widnes Market has always been at the heart of the local community and as such has raised many thousands of pounds over the years.
Widnes Market Traders’ Debbie Taylor said: “It’s all about giving something to local people and Clic Sargent, which works with major children’s hospitals in the area was on our radar for a long time before we were able to nominate it as our charity for last year.”
Clic Sargent is the cancer charity for children, young people and their families.
Its care teams have been providing specialist support across the UK for years, especially at Alder Hey, Liverpool Royal, Clatterbridge and The Christie Hospitals, where the majority of children who are diagnosed with cancer from Halton will attend at for treatment.
The last major fundraising activity by Widnes Market Traders was the free Christmas Grotto, where more than 1,500 children were able to meet Santa, have a photo with him and get a small gift.
Families attended were able to donate any amount if they wished to.
Combined with their efforts over Christmas, the traders also brought along The Easter Bunnies last April, had many summer fun days, cake bakes and Halloween events, all of which raised the cash.
“It’s great for the market to be involved with a charity,” said Trader Patrick Higgins who trades on the market.
“It’s great for the traders too, especially when we are able to the smiles on children’s faces when our events take place. Great fun for all and we hope that parents who bring along their children think we do a good job too.”
Clic Sargent fundraising engagement manager Stefanie Underhill said: “We are hugely grateful for the support of the Widness Market Traders over the last 18 months.
“The amount raised is an absolute credit to all the stall holders and individuals that gave up their time and efforts to help reach such an amazing total. Everyone has worked really hard to organise a fun-filled calendar of events for the community, including a magical Christmas Grotto.
“All the money raised will make a huge difference to young lives and families who are currently facing cancer. We can’t thank you enough.”
