A CARING cancer support group has raised more than £1,300 after bringing its brilliantly bonkers bingo night to Colchester.
Breast Friends took over the top floor venue of Three Wise Monkeys, in the High Street, to host its inaugural Boogie Bingo evening.
The sold-out event, organised by group member Kelly Clark with a little help from her Breast Friends, attracted roughly 70 players.
True to its title, the night provided those in attendance with plenty of opportunities to boogie, with musical interludes sound-tracking certain number calls.
When compere Dave Garlick called the number 22, for example, a snippet of Taylor Swift’s hit single of the same name was blasted out by DJ Chris Russell.
On-stage dancers wearing disco ball helmets also performed carefully choreographed routines to each track while whipping the crowd into a fun-loving frenzy.
Caroline Sturman, co-founder of Breast Friends alongside Janine Aldis, was delighted with how the evening went, saying she is “beyond thrilled”.
“Boogie Bingo was an absolute hit and so much more than just a fun night out,” she added.
“It really showcased what Breast Friends is all about - people pulling together, having a great time, and supporting each other in big ways.
“Huge thanks to Kelly for organising the evening and whose journey with us, from receiving support to being a key part of our team, really embodies what we're all about.”
In total the joyous event raised more than £1,300 through ticket sales and a raffle, money which will now be put towards helping women who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Caroline said: “These generous funds will help us continue to offer our surgery and menopause kits along with the virtual peer support hubs and community-based events which provide a vital space for people affected by breast cancer to connect, chat and share experiences.
“So much more than just services, these really are lifelines for those navigating the challenges that come with a breast cancer diagnosis.
“Events like Boogie Bingo are so important, not just for the incredible funds they raise, but for raising awareness about the essential peer support network Breast Friends offers, ensuring those that need us know we exist.”
To find out more information about Breast Friends visit breastfriends.co.uk or head to facebook.com/BreastFriendsCIC.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here