Debra Slesser is staging five events this year to raise money for the South Shields-based charity Cancer Connections.

The first was a Silly Shoes night last month at the New Crown pub in Mowbray Road, South Shields, which raised £1,223.

Mrs Slesser said: "I would like to thank everyone who made donations, including Harton Gym, Carpet Warehouse, Brickwork Direct, Hairworks, Barbour and Sir William Fox Hotel and the many others.

"Thanks also to Alison, Steve and the staff at the New Crown. But most of all I would like to thank everyone who was there on the night and spent loads of money! It meant a lot to me."

Mrs Slesser, 41, of Westoe, South Shields, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2004 and had chemotherapy, radiotherapy and numerous operations.

After a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, the mum-of-one was then found to have the cancer-causing gene BRAC2.

To prevent the cancer from spreading further, she had her ovaries removed.

Now she is attending regular check-ups and doctors have said that, after five years, there is less chance of the cancer returning.

She has received a lot of support from Cancer Connections in Boldon Lane, and wants to help it raise £300,000 to buy more suitable premises.

A six-mile Sunset Stroll, from Roker, in Sunderland, to South Shields, will take place on June 6, and another charity night is planned for October or November.

The medical receptionist will also take part in the Great North Women's Run in July, and is hoping for a place in the Great North Run.

Her daughter, Jessica, 10, also wants to pitch in by organising a bag pack and coffee morning.

Volunteers are welcome to take part in the Sunset Stroll. Mrs Slesser can be contacted on (07771) 662 997 or by e-mail at debraslesser@hotmail.com