FOR Valerie Brooks, Wednesdays are her "spoil days" which she looks forward to during the rest of the week, writes Michaela Robinson-Tate..

After being picked up by a volunteer driver, she is taken to the CancerCare Lakes Centre in Kendal, where she and other people with cancer can have their hair done, meet up with friends, and enjoy a cooked lunch.

Mrs Brooks, who is 72, and from Grange-over-Sands, said she felt very fortunate.

"I come from Germany, and I talk to my family over there and there's not anything like it," she said.

"I feel like a new person when I get home.

"The highlight is coming through that door and feeling safe and comfortable, and being made to feel as if you are somebody, because sometimes you give up on yourself and they don't allow that here."

There are currently a number of places available on the social day care sessions, which are run by CancerCare (North Lancashire and South Lakeland).

The group members are collected and arrive at the Blackhall Road centre in time for morning coffee and biscuits.

There are lots of activities on offer including aromatherapy sessions, facials and massage, hairstyling and manicures.

After sherry and lunch, the group might have a game of bingo, be entertained by a pianist, or have a trip out.

They are taken home following their afternoon tea.

The only charge is a £2 contribution towards lunch.

The volunteer helpers will also go shopping for group members, and help with any queries over bills or letters.

There is no age restriction, and participants come from as far afield as Hawkshead and Grange.

Typically, their illness may mean they are no longer able to drive, or get out very easily.

Social day care supervisor Jayne Richardson said: "It's to try to have a social life, and a bit of normality rather than be in the four walls all the time.

"They usually come and forget about being poorly for the day and have a bit of a joke and smile."

She and the team of volunteers also get a lot out of the sessions.

"I think everybody's here because they just love it to bits," she said.

"The patients thank us for what we are doing but we get as much out of it."

l Anyone interested in joining the group should get in touch the CancerCare Lakes Centre on 01539-735800.

Participants do have to be referred by a professional like a GP, or district or Macmillan nurse.

CancerCare would also like to hear from anyone who can offer time, or a craft or activity, or who would be able to fund-raise for the sessions.