What began as a small coffee morning eight years ago for Macmillan Cancer Support, has grown into a much-loved tradition bringing people together year after year.

And this time the efforts of those at Alive West Norfolk has raised £1,356 for cancer care at Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital following five bake sales held across different locations.

Over the last four years, proceeds from the event have been shared between Macmillan and the QEH Cancer Care and Treatment Centre, supporting people facing cancer.

Mark Mitchell, head of health and wellness at Alive, said: “It made perfect sense to raise funds for the QEH Cancer Care Centres because it holds a special place in the hearts of so many of our team at Alive. Many of our staff, along with their families and friends, have received care and support there, and this is our way of expressing our gratitude for the incredible work the team does every day.

“We also work in partnership with the hospital. We deliver a physical activity wellness programme to support people with gentle exercise and holistic wellbeing to complement their treatment. Contributing to the funding of this programme felt like a natural extension of that partnership, helping ensure it can continue to make a positive impact long into the future.”

Last year, Alive West Norfolk and the QEH Cancer Care team were jointly recognised at the hospital’s staff awards. Their partnership on a gentle fitness programme for cancer patients, funded by the QEHKL Charity, has been widely praised. The initiative helps people build strength, boost energy, and improve overall wellbeing during and after treatment.

Vicky Mitchell, patient information and support manager at the hospital’s Cancer Wellbeing and Support Centre, said: “We are very grateful to Alive West Norfolk for this fundraising which will help us to continue to provide much needed support for our patients affected by cancer such as the Physical Activity Assessment Programme.”

Rebecca McMinn, charity manager at the QEH, added: “Fundraising is more than a number, it’s a reminder of what can be achieved when a community rallies behind a cause that truly matters. Every cake baked, every pound donated, and every hand offered in support helps change the experience of those living with cancer.”

You can support the hospital’s charity by visiting the www.qehklcharity.co.uk, or email the charity team at: Charity@qehkl.nhs.uk or alternatively, call 01553 613309.