ONE of the Bury's hardest working and most crucial community services is celebrating a special anniversary.

Bury Cancer Support Centre marked its 15th birthday last week, holding a party to say thank you for the years of support is has received.

The party was attended by users of the service past and present, as well as long standing and new supporters; some of whom had travelled many miles to make the event ­— including one from Australia.

At the party attendees enjoyed a buffet made by staff and volunteers, and had fun with a tombola and raffle.

A speech was also given by Jeff Green, chair of the centre's trustees, thanking staff, volunteers and centre users for making the centre the great success it is today.

Thanks were also given to supporters Bury MG Club and Clough and Willis Solicitors, who presented the charity with checks for £600 and £590 respectively, from their own fundraising events.

Originally making its home in St James Church Hall, Bury Cancer Support was only able to open for one half day a week when it was first established.

However popularity and need for the service quickly grew and three years ago the centre moved to new premises on Bolton Road where it now offers vital care, support and a friendly face for a chat and a cuppa four days a week.

An independent, self-funded charity the centre is reliant on the kindness of its supporters to enable it to continue and help it expand its work to provide support to those affected by cancer and their families.

Mr Green said: "Bury Cancer Support Centre was started 15 years ago . It was recognised by the founders that there was a gap in the support services for cancer patients and their families.

"The centre was located in St James Church for 1 day a week. Once the centre became public knowledge it was clear that one day was not enough.The service expanded quickly.

"In 2014 the centre was relocated to its new home at 406 Bolton Road. "The Centre has evolved in that time and we are proud that the basic principles set by the founders have not changed. A range of support tailored to a persons individual needs; free to access and no appointment necessary.

"We are proud to see how far we have evolved and developed. In conjunction with the NHS and Macmillan we are now Bury's multi -agency cancer service.

"In 15 years we have been funded and supported by the community. The charity running costs increase each year and our fundraisers still meet the challenge.

"We should be proud in Bury that we have a charity such as this. The 15th Party celebrated where we are but we have not completed our journey.

"We look forward to the future and to carry on with this very rewarding work."

To find out more about Bury Cancer Support Centre or to organise your own fundraising event to support the charity call 0161 7646609.