A BREAST cancer survivor is collecting a mountain of bras to raise cash for charity.

For every kilo of bras collected by Lesley Colley, £1 goes to the cancer research charity Breast Cancer Campaign.

The customer service advisor from Chester-le- Street is asking colleagues at EDF Energy, in Sunderland, to hand over unwanted bras.

The 44-year-old was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and had a double mastectomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, to treat cancer that had travelled to her lymph nodes.

She said: “When I was diagnosed with cancer, it was a time filled with worry and I was so glad there was a treatment available for me.

“I’ve gone through a lot to have the cancer removed and then opted for reconstructive surgery too, which was completed last year. I still take medication and receive regular check-ups.

“Charities like Breast Cancer Campaign do fantastic work to fund research into breast cancer treatment.”

Lesley has joined forces with her daughter’s motherin- law Teresa Coombs, who also works at EDF Energy, to collect bras donated by colleagues, which are then sent to BreastTalk.

The bras are sold to traders in developing countries where they create employment in povertystricken areas and affordable clothing for local people.

Kevin Gatens, EDF Energy’s head of customer contact centre North East, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Lesley and Teresa and wish them lots of success in their appeal to raise funds for breast cancer research.”