NORTH-EAST fitness fans have raised thousands to help cancer sufferers look good and feel better.

A series of fundraising activities held in Bannatyne’s Health Clubs throughout the region raised more than £15,000 for Look Good Feel Better recently.

The charity runs free confidence-boosting skin care and make-up workshops across the UK for those struggling with the effects of cancer treatment.

Their annual fundraising campaign saw health clubs in Darlington, Chester-le-Street, Durham, Coulby Newham and Ingleby Barwick host a diverse range of events, from coffee mornings to spin-a-thons and mini-pampering sessions.

Donations from the event went to support the work of the charity, which sees volunteer make-up artists teach those with cancer how to use cosmetics to combat physical changes caused by the condition.

Duncan Bannatyne, Chairman of the Bannatyne Group, said: “Everyone knows somebody affected by this terrible disease and it is important we do all we can to help patients who are bravely battling this horrible and indiscriminate illness.

“Look Good Feel Better performs an absolutely vital service which has helped thousands of women who are fighting cancer across the UK and beyond.

“Members and staff at our health clubs really enjoyed organising fundraising events for such a worthwhile cause and this gave us the momentum to exceed our target.”

With money still coming in, the total raised through the health clubs is expected to top £20,000.