South Shields Town Hall turned purple for World Cancer Day

South Shields Town Hall was given the colourful glow last night as people around the globe were encouraged to think of those battling the disease and those who have lost their lives.

Ann Walsh, who has raised thousands for Cancer Research UK by organising the Relay For Life, went along to see the building, in Westoe Road, in all its glory.

South Shields Town Hall marks World Cancer Day.

She was joined by young cancer survivor Charlie Mordey, his parents Angela and Chris, and other supporters.

Ann, who was awarded a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List, said: “Quite a few people went down to see the Town Hall lit up and it was wonderful to see so many people there even though it was freezing – it felt like a big community thing and it was wonderful that South Tyneside Council showed their support by doing this.

“It was really special to see, it was quite atmospheric and a lovely thing to do when people all around the world are marking World Cancer Day together.”

Ann, a PE teacher at Epinay School in Jarrow, also watched on during World Cancer Day while Year 6 pupil Charlotte Ferguson had her long hair chopped off in front of the whole school.

Ann Walsh joins Charlie Mordey with parents Angela and Chris, and supporters outside South Shields Town Hall, which was illuminated purple to mark World Cancer Day.

The 10-year-old, of Lukes Lane, Hebburn, decided to chop 8inches of her hair off and donate it to the Little Princess Trust, a charity that makes wigs for children who have lost their hair through cancer treatment.

The youngster was also sponsored and helped raise more than £100 for Cancer Research UK.

Ann said: “Charlotte mentioned that she wanted to raise some money by having her hair cut off and her mam got in touch after being told that I organise the relay for Cancer Research and we thought with World Cancer Day coming up it would be a great opportunity to do it then.

“It apparently took her four years to grow her hair as long as it was and the whole school watched while she had it cut. She’s raised £100 so far and there’s still more money to come in so she’s done a brilliant job.

Charlotte Ferguson cut off her hair to raise money for Cancer Research UK. She's pictured with, from left Laura Hardie of Reef Hair Design, her mum Mary Ann and Ann Walsh.

“The children at the school are always very supportive of fundraising for a number of charities and it’s wonderful seeing them get behind the relay like this.”

The Relay For Life will take place at Monkton Stadium, in Jarrow, on July 16 and 17. People can sign up to take part at relay.cancerresearchuk.org