Funding boost in memory of Chris; In association with the NHS A charity set up in honour of a teenager who died from a rare form of cancer has been given a cash boost. Health Reporter HELEN RAE explains.

Byline: HELEN RAE

A CANCER charity set up in memory of a Tyneside youngster who died from the illness has received a huge cash boost.

A donation of pounds 5,900 was handed to the Chris Lucas Trust by employees from P&G Colbalt Business Park site, outside Tynemouth Priory - one of the teenager's favourite places.

Chris Lucas, of Lancaster Drive, Hadrian Park, Wallsend, died in July 2000, aged 18, after contracting the rare form of cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma.

Shortly after his death, parents Lynn and Lynn helped found the Chris Lucas Trust to raise money for other people suffering from the disease.

The donation will help fund the work of the charity's dedicated scientific researcher.

Based at the Royal Marsden hospital in London, the researcher is aiming to find ways to improve and maintain the health of people diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma - an aggressive form of cancer.

Chris's mum, Lynn said: "It always means a great deal when people support our work as we try and find a way to beat this devastating disease. I'd like to thank everyone for their fundraising efforts and generous donation."

P&G employees and their on-site partners Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) and Hewlett-Packard (HP) raised the money as part of the company's Community Matters programme which encourages employees to get involved in voluntary activities.

Matthew Robinson, who nominated the charity to receive the funding, said: "Employees at P&G, JLL and HP came up with a range of imaginative ways to raise the funds including moneycan't-buy auctions.

"We are very happy to know that the money raised will help the Chris Lucas Trust in their tremendous efforts to advance scientific research."

Anne Perrin, P&G's Community Matters coordinator added: "The company has a long tradition of working to support our local communities.

"I am delighted that the hard work and generosity of our employees has given a valuable boost to the Chris Lucas Trust."

To find out more about the work of the Chris Lucas Trust, visit www.chrislucastrust.com

CAPTION(S):

HAPPY MEMORIES - Chris Lucas, who died of cancer in 2000, with his parents, both called Lynn; TIRELESS FUNDRAISERS - Lynn and Lynn Lucas have welcomed the donation