I was in attendance last night at the presentation of the cheques for cancer research.

You could see on their faces how proud Alice Bennis, Lesley Flannery and all of the volunteers who are in their senior years were at seeing all of their voluntary work being used for such a worthy cause.

Maitland Cancer Appeal has raised $1,058,500 since 2007 for cancer research, donations to the Mater Hospital for Wigs, special beds for hospitals, renovation of John Hunter Hospital Rooms and other related cancer projects – not bad for a bunch of good hearted volunteers.

They also provide a linen service for those in need where they collect and deliver linen three times a week at no charge; they also provide mattress covers, towels and other products to make life much easier for families who are experiencing traumatic times at home.

Professor Jim Denhan on receiving a cheque for $100,000 announced their next project will be known as the Maitland Project in honour of the Maitland Cancer Appeal contribution of $250,000 over the past three years.

Talking to Alice at the presentation function, she said, “We are appreciative of the support we receive from the general public.”

- Ray Fairweather, East Maitland