A CHARITY set up in memory of a Skelmorlie woman to help people with cancer inspired a recent community fundraiser.

Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay Church hosted a coffee morning to show their long running support for a cause close to their heart.

Much loved Gillian Ward, a mum-of-two, lost her battle with cancer 13 years ago.

Since then her husband Les and her two young sons have devoted their time to run a respite home to help other families.

Fundraiser Muriel O'May, of Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay Church, said: "We had a great turnout on the day.

"The charity is such a fitting legacy to Gillian, she was a wonderful woman.

"Gillian was a member of the church and grew up in Skelmorlie.

"Her mum Elsie comes to church."

Gillian, mum to sons Jason and Scott, died from breast cancer in December 2005 aged only 40.

Her husband wanted to have a lasting legacy in her name and raised £100,000 for a respite home, which is used all year round by people from Maggie's Centre.

Muriel added: "I think what is important about this charity is no one takes anything out of it.

"Every penny raised goes to helping people.

"We have a fundraiser every year and her family always come along to support us."

The church welcomed Les, Jason and Elsie to the fundraiser.

As well as coffee there was tea, delicious home-baked cake and a tombola, raising more than £400.