Joan develops the art of raising funds
JOAN McAleavy decided to raise funds for local Macmillan nurses, as a result of losing her husband, Terry, to cancer.
"I used to send donations to the charity after he was cared for, 18 years ago," she said. "When I finished work I decided to set up a coffee morning in my own home, however it got so large, and we had so many people coming, that we had to look for bigger premises because we were bursting at the seams!"
"I approached the then parish priest, Fr Manny Gribben, from St Mary's RC Church, Cleator, who kindly allowed us free use of St Bega's Hall, at Bowthorn, Cleator Moor, and from then on we have gone from strength to strength."
As well as hosting the coffee day it is also seen an opportunity for local artists to exhibit, and sell their own works of art.
"We we take a small commission, which goes to the Macmillan Cancer support charity.
Joan said: ‘This year on September 25, at St Bega's Hall, Bowthorn, we are hosting our ninth coffee day. Last year's was a brilliant success and we raised over £1,500.
"This year we will display over 65 paintings from 25 local artists, which will all be for sale and we are also having a raffle, a white elephant stall and a good craic, over a good cup of coffee".
The coffee morning is always popular and this year The Mayor of Copeland, will be there too.
Joan said: "Everyone is welcome and we look forward to seeing you there."
The organisers are looking for donations for their white elephant stall, so if you are willing and able to donate anything then please telephone Joan on 01946 814783, as soon as possible.
