Two North East women who lost their spouses to cancer have raised thousands for a cancer charity through various events - including a sell-out 'Full Monty'.

Linda Gordon and Julie Cunningham, from South Shields, have raised over £50,000 for cancer charity, Macmillan, in honour of their late husbands, Paul and Tony.

Both sadly lost their partners to the disease, with Paul passing away after oesophageal cancer spread to his liver, and Tony from lung cancer.

Since 2019, the pair have conducted a host of fundraisers and events, including a 'Real Full Monty' inspired show at Whiteleas Social Club in South Shields last year.

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Speaking on their efforts and friendship, Linda said: “Julie and I supported each other through the darkest times and we now volunteer and fundraise for Macmillan because we recognise the great support the charity offers to family and friends as well as those living with cancer.

“We never take people’s generosity for granted, especially now with so many families enduring soaring energy bills and everything else that’s going on.

“Julie and I campaign throughout the year to raise money and provide great raffle prizes, working with local businesses to raise money that we then invest in quality prizes such as expensive watches and a £500 cash prize.

“We do this because we recognise we live in an area that is not affluent and we have a loyal base of supporters who consistently come to our events and take part in our bonus ball and other raffles so the least we can do is provide well-rehearsed, professionally run events with the opportunity for those supporting us to go home with great raffle prizes.”

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They originally became friends after meeting each other with their husbands at The Lake pub in South Shields, where Paul was a popular darts player.

The duo are the chair and treasurer of the South Tyneside and Sunderland Macmillan Fundraising Group which they founded.

The two still directly provide help to those living with cancer outside of their charity work, with Linda volunteering advice as part of the South Tyneside and Sunderland Macmillan Information and Support Centre.

Meanwhile, Julie is an auxiliary nurse in cardiology, palliative and end of life care at South Tyneside Hospital, while also volunteering for Macmillan to offer support to those affected by cancer.

Linda said she and Julie got their idea for their Full Monty fundraiser after seeing 'The Real Full Monty' TV show, thinking it would be a "wonderful" way for them and their circle of friends to raise money.

She said they were initially nervous in 2019, but this time around they knew what to expect and were delighted with the support they received.

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Speaking on their efforts, Jane Curry fundraising manager for Macmillan Cancer Support said: “We are so grateful to the support that these ladies have given to us, not only as amazing fundraisers but also volunteering.

"They have created a force for good after both enduring such a terrible experience. So many people affected by cancer have already benefited.”

If you or family member needs support regarding cancer, more information can be found here.