A FUNDRAISER who has incurable cancer teamed up with friends to collect cash from generous shoppers for local services which offer a lifeline to patients.

Macmillan Cancer Support campaigners set up stall at M&S in the Port retail park and collected an amazing £1,500 in only three days.

Volunteers won the hearts of customers and staff alike as they raised awareness of classes run locally by the charity like Move More, which delivers tailored exercise to people with cancer.

They also highlighted the Macmillan benefits advice service which helps patients who are not only facing a life-threatening illness but also financial insecurity.

Macmillan volunteer Margaret Irvine, 54, from Inverkip, was diagnosed with incurable cancer more than three years ago, said: "Honestly we can't thank people enough for their generosity.

"We are overwhelmed by the support from both shoppers and the Marks and Spencer staff.

"They were so supportive of us and are going to help fundraise.

"We are trying to get the message across that money raised for Macmillan funds local services like Move More.

"There is also the fantastic Benefits Advice service run by Jacqueline Coyle.

"You meet so many people who suffer financial hardship as a result of being diagnosed with cancer.

"For some people being ill really is expensive.

"Cancer patients going through treatment are not able to work but you still have to pay the bills and there is the expense of travelling to make hospital appointments for some people.

"It is things like that people don't realise."

The former senior nurse stood alongside other women who have faced cancer to raise funds for the charity.

She also recently organised an afternoon tea party in her house, raising another £700 to help fund services locally.

Margaret is devoting her time to fundraise and raise awareness of local services in a bid to help other patients.

Their campaign struck a chord with M&S food manager Erin Rae.

She said: "They are just amazing and we were glad to help in whatever way we can.

"MacMillan Cancer is one of our charities anyway but to see what it can do locally is important.

"My mum was diagnosed with cancer so I know the impact it has.

"We want to fundraise and show our support in whatever way we can."