Family smash fundraising target in dad's memory

Helen Mackerill has made it her mission to support St Clare’s Hospice in memory of her husband Paul, who lost his battle with skin cancer last August.

The 52-year-old was cared for by the hospice, in Primrose Terrace, Jarrow, in his final days.

Already, Mrs Mackerill and her two daughters Emily and Sophie have raised more than £21,000 after a further £5,465.81 was raised at a charity event held at the Simonside Social Club in South Shields.

The night featured South Tyneside band The Waiters.

Mrs Mackerill said: “We held the fundraising night as it was what would have been their couple’s wedding anniversary, it was also close to a year since Paul died.

“Everyone had a great night and we raised more than £5,000 which was incredible.

“It was very hard for me and the girls, especially when I had to give a speech. But everyone had a great time.

“I can’t thank everyone for their support and the Waiters and also Big Bob - we couldn’t have done it without him.”

Mrs Mackerill had set out to raise £10,000 for the hospice which cared for her husband within 12-months.

However, with the help of family and friends they smashed that total.

Mrs Mackerill added: “We are a very proud family and we look forward to many more fund raising events to come.”

Mr Mackerill, who had his own company PM Joinery Services and worked on bars across South Tyneside, was first diagnosed with melanoma in 2011 after a mole on his chest became cancerous.

It was removed in the December of that year but, by the following September, it was discovered the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes. He underwent another operation and was continually monitored.

The following January he became ill again, this time losing his hearing. It was discovered he had brain tumours including growths in his ears.

Paul died after four years of battling the disease.

People can still donate to a fundraising page set up in his memory by visiting www.justigiving.com/Helen-Mackerill1/ choosing St Clare’s

For details on St Clare’s Hospice and it’s services visit www.stclareshospice.co.uk/