A Wisbech woman who has terminal cancer organised an event in the town that raised thousands of pounds for charity.
Emma Barnard's friends, family and supporters came together on Saturday night to hold a fundraising quiz and raffle.
It was held in support of Edith’s Purse, a fundraiser set up after Emma's diagnosis last year that aims to help local families in financial difficulty.
The event, which was hosted at Legend’s Sports Bar, Wisbech, on January 18, saw 27 teams take part.
There was also a raffle with more than 100 prizes, all donated by friends, family and well-wishers.
With players paying a modest quiz entrance fee, raffle sales and many numerous donations on the night and online through the fundraiser’s Paypal and Just Giving page, the event helped to raise £3,327.66 for Edith’s Purse.
“Wisbech gets such a bad press but our community is amazing and always steps up when called.
“I’m so grateful for their kindness and generosity. I also have to thank Tommy Kelly for offering to host the quiz and Betty Cunningham for allowing us to use Legend’s for free ”.
Edith’s purse was named after her nan, Edith Waterfield, who like Emma had breast cancer twice and died before Emma was born.
“My nan was mum to 10 children and had very little, but everyone who knew her says what a wonderful, caring lady she was and this is my tribute to her”.
Emma created Edith’s Purse to be her legacy after her terminal diagnosis last summer.
Her husband Darren, three children and family have promised to continue raising money for families in need.
She wanted to help families with children after her own two adopted daughter’s experience.
“You never know what’s around the corner and how suddenly your circumstances can change and you’re having to choose between paying to keep a roof over your head or buying food.
“I want to educate our community and give people an understanding about how dire the situation is for some of our local families.
“If everyone helped one person, how different our world would be.”
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Emma and her family are planning to work with local support structures with aim the of achieving charity status and are hoping to then secure support from local businesses.
They had already received over £4,000 in donations and have provided help to 19 families.
They are planning more fundraising events throughout the year, but anyone can make a donation at any time via Paypal or Just Giving.
Detailscan be found on Edith’s Purse Facebook page.
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