Thorpe St Andrew pub to celebrate launch of cancer charity one year on with fundraiser

The Blue Ribbon Foundation, which raises awareness of male health issues, particularly cancer, was set up last year by prostate cancer survivor Mel Lacey, whose recovery from the disease prompted him to want to do something to help others.

Trisha Murphy, who runs the Rushcutters pub with partner Ben Cooke, said: 'We held a fundraising event last March for the charity and are holding another event one year on.

'We have raised �2,000 for the charity in the last year and will continue to support it.

'Ben and I are great supporters of the charity and have become very good friends with Mel, so it is a privilege to be able to help this charity.'

The Yarmouth Road pub is holding a fundraising event for the charity on Friday, March 2.

It will start with a balloon launch at 11am and pub staff will wear blue to raise awareness of the charity. There will also be a raffle with prizes ranging from free meals to free haircuts and live entertainment.

Donation slips have already been placed on tables at the pub for people to put in a box.

Mr Lacey, who is one of the charity's three trustees, said he was delighted to have received support from the Rushcutters.

He said: 'It's great to retain local support and the Rushcutters held the first fundraising event in the country for the charity, which is due to have its official national launch later in the year.

'A year on, it's only right that we celebrate the first anniversary of the foundation at the Rushcutters.

'Ben and Trisha have been right behind the charity from the very start, and I would urge people to come to the event in March.'

Norwich North MP Chloe Smith officially became the foundation's first patron in December last year.

For more information or how to donate to the charity, visit www.blueribbonfoundation.org.uk

Are you raising money for charity in Norwich? Call reporter David Bale on 01603 772427 or email david.bale2@archant.co.uk